We proactively seek to provide a safe and secure environment for all those living on and visiting our campus. We do so by using several methods. The most visible is the presence of uniformed police officers who utilize several methods to patrol the campus.
We work closely with other university departments using a team approach that seeks to educate on a wide variety of safety and crime prevention topics.
We also use the latest technology in our communication center to assist us in providing a safe and secure campus. Though no campus can say they are 100% safe, we take pride in having been able to work as a community in keeping Fitchburg State University a place conducive to learning and personal growth.
Suggestions to continue our team approach to campus safety
Encourage your student to:
- Lock their room door. Even though they “know everyone on their floor,” they can’t control guests and visitors strolling the hallways. The same applies to off-campus residences. Students never know who might make their way into the neighborhood. Ask who is at the door before opening it. The residence hall community does not have to be as informal as they think.
- Walk with a buddy late at night or in potentially dangerous situations.
- Be smart about their use of alcohol and other drugs. Being under the influence makes it difficult for students to think clearly.
- Get to know the University Police officers.
- Be careful about the information they choose to share online. Whether it is an away message or a post on a social networking site, more people have access to their profiles than they think.
- Keep their whereabouts “under wraps.” Posting their schedule on their door or online is not a good idea.
- Keep their vehicle locked, store valuables out of sight, and be cautious and aware when approaching their vehicle late at night.
- Treat the campus grounds with respect. Vandalizing and damaging directional signs, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment costs the university valuable funds and effort that could be directed to other areas. Plus, those items won’t be available when a real emergency strikes.
- Follow campus policies; they are in place for students’ safety.
- Report suspicious activity to the appropriate campus officials, even if it’s “just a hunch.” Their tip may be one of many being received about an individual or action taking place. Tips can also be submitted by using the anonymous witness or the RAVE Guardian App.
FAQs
Q. How does Fitchburg State ensure campus safety for students?
A. Fitchburg State University maintains campus safety through 24/7/365 patrols by sworn officers of the Fitchburg State University Police Department, integrated surveillance and access control technology, and proactive safety education. Students are encouraged to lock room doors, travel with companions after dark, utilize the Rave Guardian safety app, and promptly report suspicious activity to University Police.
Q. What should students do if they need emergency or non-emergency assistance on campus?
A. Students requiring immediate emergency or non-emergency help should contact the Fitchburg State University Police Department Dispatch at 978.665.3111 or activate any campus emergency call box. Dispatchers are available 24/7/365 and can connect students directly with on-call personnel from Counseling Services, Residence Life, or the Dean of Students Office.
Q. How often do university police patrol the Fitchburg State campus?
A. Sworn officers of the Fitchburg State University Police Department patrol the campus and adjacent university properties 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Patrols are conducted via marked police cruisers, mountain bikes, and foot patrols across academic buildings, residence halls, and parking lots.
Q. How can parents access Fitchburg State's campus crime statistics?
A. Campus crime statistics are published annually by October 1st in the Fitchburg State University Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (ASFSR) in compliance with the federal Clery Act and Uniform Crime Reporting standards. The reports are accessible on the University Police website, and physical copies are available at the University Police Station (32 Clinton Street, Fitchburg, MA).
Q. How does Fitchburg State notify families and students during a campus emergency?
A. During a campus emergency, the University will send emergency notifications via SMS text, email, and phone calls. Updates are also broadcast through the RAVE Guardian mobile app and official university channels. University Police maintain formal mutual aid partnerships with the City of Fitchburg Police Department, Fitchburg Fire Department, and Massachusetts State Police.
Q. What mental health and psychological support resources are available for Fitchburg State students?
A. Fitchburg State University offers mental health and crisis support through Counseling Services and the CARE Team (Case Management). Students with specialized diagnoses or medical accommodations are encouraged to register confidentially with Disability Services before arrival.
Q. What night safety and transportation options are available on campus after dark?
A. Fitchburg State University provides free evening transportation via the Montachusett Regional Transit Authority (MART) Campus Shuttle using a student Fitchburg State OneCard. Outside shuttle hours, the Fitchburg State University Police Department and Student Security Team provide free walking and vehicle safety escorts 24/7, requested by calling 978.665.3111 or using a campus emergency call box.
Q. How are Fitchburg State residence halls secured?
A. Residence halls are secured 24/7 with OneCard electronic card key access, lobby security cameras monitored by University Police Communication Center officers, automated propped-door alarms, and residence hall Desk Attendants. On-site support is provided by Residence Life Staff, including Resident Assistants (RAs) and Area Coordinators.
Q. How are campus parking lots monitored and secured at Fitchburg State?
A. Campus parking lots are patrolled by University Police officers and parking enforcement staff. All campus lots are equipped with emergency call boxes or video surveillance cameras connected directly to the University Police Communication Center.
We thank you for taking your time to learn what we are doing to keep you child safe while they attend our university. Please feel free to contact us at University Police if you have any other questions or concerns. We are striving to provide the best and safest learning environment possible.
