Resources available to keep the WVU community safe

With the recent stories in the media and in light of the Jacksonville, Fla. shooting, WVU wants to assure our students, parents, faculty and staff that the University Police Department takes all threats seriously and makes every effort to follow procedures and standards specific to each situation to ensure the protection of the University community.

There are multiple resources available to help keep the WVU community safe:

• WVU Alert - sends texts and emails to students during emergencies or closings due to inclement weather.
• LiveSafe App - users can contact University Police via text message, provides a Safe Walk feature and has an emergency feature that contacts UPD or 911.
• WellWVU – comprehensive wellness education and activities for all WVU students.
• WVU Student Health – medical health services for WVU students.
• WVU CARE Team - for non-emergency situations, students, faculty and staff are also encouraged to report individuals they believe to be at-risk or seek assistance themselves.

Please note that every precaution is taken to ensure the safety of the University community when a threat is received. Not every situation warrants an issuance of an emergency alert. In fact, in some instances it can potentially escalate the situation.

University Police Chief W.P. Chedester reminds everyone to report any suspicious behavior or activity to your professor, supervisor or directly to UPD. The UPD can be reached by phone at 304-293-COPS.

West Virginia University was ranked as one of the top 40 safest campuses in the United States, according to the National Council for Home Safety and Security, and the UPD protects more than 30,000 students and 6,000 employees.