DPS News

Welcome back to campus for the Spring 2022 semester. As the semester gets underway, we wanted to share with you important information and reminders from the Department of Public Safety (DPS).

DPS Communications

For those of you who are new to our campus, we want to inform you of why, how and when you will receive communications from DPS. For our returning community members, this serves as a reminder.

First, you will receive a monthly email from the department with critical updates. Additionally, there are other times you will receive messages from our team.

We issue broad communications across the campus community:

• When there is an active or imminent threat of physical danger to the campus community.
• When there is an active crime scene on or immediately adjacent to campus and we need community members to avoid the area.
• When a perpetrator is at large on or immediately adjacent to campus and we need the community’s help locating the individual.

Broad communications will not be issued:

• When initial investigation into an incident indicates there is no continuing threat.
• When another law enforcement agency has jurisdiction or is the lead investigator on an active case, and we have been directed not to issue a notice. That agency may communicate to the broader public and direct us to inform our community.
• When communicating broadly will impede or jeopardize an active investigation. Please note: Although it is our intention to communicate broadly any bias-related incident within 48 hours, we will always prioritize maintaining the integrity of an investigation, especially when we are following active leads.

Visit the DPS website to review additional information about how DPS uses emergency notification and public safety messages.

Download the Rave Guardian Safety Mobile App

Last spring, we introduced the Rave Guardian app. This app replaced the LiveSafe app but still offers all the same features, including easily connecting with emergency resources, safety timers, anonymous tip reporting and quick access to critical resources. Please download this important app today! For more information about the app, including frequently asked questions, visit dps.syr.edu.

Safety Strategies

Our chief priority is your health, safety and well-being. Below are some actions you can take to protect yourself while at your residence, on campus or out in the community.

• Always lock your windows and doors, even if you’re only going to be away from your room for a short period of time or while you’re sleeping at night. Criminals look for opportunities like an open window or unlocked door.
• Keep your stuff with you! Never leave cell phones, laptops, wallets or other valuables out of your sight—it only takes a few seconds for someone to walk away with them.
• Use a U-bolt locking device for your bicycle and register your bike with DPS.
• Never walk alone. Most street crime incidents occur at night and usually involve students walking alone or with just one other person.
• Connecting with DPS is as easy as opening an app on your smartphone. With Rave Guardian, you can call DPS or 911 in the event of an emergency; report tips, including pictures; or use the SafeWalk feature, which permits you to virtually share your location with friends as you walk to a destination. Download the app today!
• Run. Hide. Fight.: In the event of an active shooter situation, it’s important to be prepared. We created a video for you to understand the importance of these three words: Run. Hide. Fight.

For additional information, be sure to review the University’s resources and the DPS website.

Please continue to check your email for additional information and updates.

Sincerely,

The Department of Public Safety