Be prepared: Campus safety resources and tips

By Roman Petrowski, McGovern Communications
A telephone pedestal for campus safety

(Photo by UTHealth Houston)

With thousands of students, trainees, faculty, staff, and visitors on campus each day, maintaining a safe and secure environment remains a top priority at UTHealth Houston.

To advance that priority, UT Police at Houston recommends the following tips to protect you, your property, and campus buildings from potential threats.

  • Lock your office door every time you leave.
  • Require identification before admitting someone unfamiliar into your room or office.
  • Ensure easy access to emergency numbers for urgent assistance.
  • Be cognizant of your surroundings, especially if you’re alone or it’s dark.
  • Avoid using mobile devices while walking to your vehicle or office.
  • Keep your distance and do not approach if someone in a vehicle asks for directions.
  • Keep your ID badge visible and avoid letting unauthorized people into a secured area.
  • Leave right away if you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation.

The best way to reduce your chances of being a target is through your actions and awareness, according to UT Police. If you see suspicious people or vehicles, call 713-792-2890.

UT Police courtesy escort

UT Police offers safety escort services to UTHealth Houston community members who would like a public safety officer to accompany them to their destination.

Operating from sunset to sunrise seven days a week, this service provides escorts to and from locations owned or operated by UTHealth Houston and MD Anderson Cancer Center in the Texas Medical Center, including parking garages and lots.

To request a courtesy escort, call the UT Police Risk Operations Center at 713-792-2890. Call ahead when possible, as wait times may vary depending on staffing levels.

A police telecommunicator will ask for:

  • Your name
  • Number of people being transported
  • Point of origin
  • Destination

Once the information is collected, an estimated wait time will be provided.

Emergency devices on campus

Throughout campus, emergency devices are available to notify UT Police of an emergency in the area.

Emergency pull stations, emergency telephone pedestals, and wall-mounted telephones are available in public areas and garages for immediate assistance. Additionally, emergency panic buttons are located at desks in security-sensitive, public-facing locations for those with access to quickly notify UT Police.

University officials encourage the campus community to be aware of the locations of these devices to signal an emergency.

Campus safety courses

A number of educational programs are available to enhance the safety of students, faculty, and staff at UTHealth Houston.

The sessions, offered by UT Police, aim to foster a proactive, safe, and informed campus environment. They offer practical skills and knowledge on various topics ranging from holiday safety to active shooter response.

Registration (external link) for these programs is open to all UTHealth Houston students, faculty, and staff.

Related topics