Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

Your Safety is Our Priority

rahe.21@osu.edu | August 27, 2025
Deputy Chief Whiteside stands at the game looking at the crowd.

The following message was sent to the campus community from Monica Moll, associate vice president of Ohio State’s Department of Public Safety:

Welcome back, Buckeyes! The Ohio State University Department of Public Safety makes your safety our priority. Please help increase safety awareness by reviewing the tips below, and by looking out for your fellow Buckeyes as we start a new semester.

LIVING ON CAMPUS

For students living in a residence hall for the first time, make every person swipe their Buck ID to gain entry to the building – never hold the door or allow tailgaters to slip in behind you. Ohio State is a safe place, but college campuses are not immune to crime or active threats. If you see something suspicious, or need to report a crime on campus, call 614-292-2121. Always dial 9-1-1 in emergencies.

While it’s scary to think about, we want everyone to be prepared by watching our Surviving an Active Aggressor video to learn the Run, Hide, Fight method. We also encourage everyone to watch and learn how to work the various classroom locks and what to do to enhance safety for you and your fellow Buckeyes.

LIVING OFF-CAMPUS

Off-campus, OSUPD operates a joint patrol program that includes four University Police officers partnered with four Columbus Division of Police officers. Together, they patrol in new vehicles, and on bikes, to add additional sworn police in the University District. There is also non-sworn security on and off-campus to help keep you safe and report known issues.

OSUPD Chief Dennis Jeffrey recently joined the City of Ohio State podcast to run down many of the safety resources available at Ohio State. Take a listen and arm yourself with valuable information to enhance your overall safety.

 

City of Ohio State Graphic With Chief Dennis Jeffrey

 

SAFETY TIPS

The university launched an online Stay Safe, Buckeyes class available in BuckeyeLearn that covers topics such as crime prevention, how to report a crime, responding to people on the street who aggressively ask for money, self-defense, mental health and more. The videos can also be watched on YouTube.

Additional safety tips include:

  • Avoid walking alone, especially at night.
  • Utilize transportation like CABS, CABS On-Demand or Lyft Ride Smart at Ohio State.
  • Use Rave Guardian to allow friends or family to track your location as a virtual guardian.
  • Always lock doors and windows at home.
  • Utilize free safety devices, including window and door alarms, available in the Ohio Union.
  • Do not let unknown people into residence halls; make everyone swipe in to gain access.
  • Do not leave valuables, keys or key fobs in your vehicle.
  • Report suspicious activity, missing or stolen items to police.

Add our number to your contacts. On campus, call The Ohio State University Police Division at 614-292-2121. Off-campus, make reports to local law enforcement such as the Columbus Police (614-645-4545). Always dial 9-1-1 in emergencies. Find more safety resources online.

You can follow @OSUPOLICE on Instagram and X. We are here to help so please approach our police or security if you see them on campus to ask questions or seek assistance.