Welcome back for a new academic year. The safety of all Buckeyes is Ohio State’s top priority, and the university has a comprehensive safety plan that includes police, non-sworn security and a campus 9-1-1 call center supported by security technology. It takes everyone working together to support a culture of safety, so please review the tips below and look out for your fellow Buckeyes.
LIVING ON CAMPUS
For students living in a residence hall for the first time – never hold the door open or allow tailgaters to slip in behind you. Make everyone use their Buck ID to gain entrance. Ohio State is a safe place, but crimes do still occur on college campuses. If you see something suspicious, or need to report a crime on campus, call 614-292-2121. Always dial 9-1-1 in emergencies.
Be prepared by watching our Surviving an Active Aggressor video to learn the Run, Hide, Fight method. It’s scary to think about, but we want all Buckeyes to know what they’d do in an active aggressor situation, including how to use the various classroom locks.
LIVING OFF-CAMPUS
Off-campus, OSUPD operates a joint patrol program that includes four University Police officers partnered with Columbus Division of Police officers. Together, they patrol in vehicles, and on bikes, to add additional sworn police in the University District. There are also non-sworn security patrols on and off-campus to help keep you safe and report known issues.
A new episode of the City of Ohio State podcast runs down everything you need to know about safety for the upcoming year. Take a listen and arm yourself with valuable information to enhance your overall safety.
SAFETY TIPS
Ohio State offers an online Stay Safe, Buckeyes class covering topics like crime prevention, how to report a crime and self-defense. The videos can 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 use their Buck ID 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.