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Reminder about safety on and near campus

The Office of Campus Safety (OCS) is committed to promoting a professional, respectful and safe campus environment. OCS believes safety and security are the responsibility of everyone on campus.

Here are a few tips you can follow to stay safe on or near campus:

Reporting suspicious behaviour

If you have concerns regarding your personal safety, or if you observe suspicious behaviour that may have a negative impact to the campus or near vicinity:

  • On campus: Contact Campus Security at 905.721.3211 or 905.721.8668 ext. 2400.
  • Off campus: Call 911.

Staying safe on campus

The university offers the following programs to help you stay safe when fewer people are on campus:

  • Code Blue stations are red poles with blue lights on top, located in parking lots, alongside footpaths, and within the Campus Library at the north Oshawa location. Each pole has a button you can press to gain instant contact with Campus Security. Once notified, Campus Security will send a guard to your location and, if required, dispatch emergency services. 
  • Downtown faculty, staff and students are encouraged to request a security escort to accompany them to their car or other campus location. To request an escort, contact Campus Security at the 61 Charles Street Building in person, or call 905.721.8668 ext. 5616.

We encourage you to visit the Campus Safety services web page to familiarize yourself with the services and crime prevention initiatives OCS offers.

General safety tips

  • Avoid walking alone and using shortcuts through unfamiliar, isolated areas.
  • Carry a flashlight and a personal safety alarm when walking alone or at night.
  • Check in and under your vehicle before entering.
  • Have your keys ready, so you can enter your car or residence quickly.
  • If you have to stay late, move your car closer to a building by a well-lit area; or request an escort to your vehicle or residence through our Campus Walk program. 
  • Keep a charged cell phone with you, have one piece of ID with you and an emergency contact number. 
  • Keep windows and sunroof closed. 
  • Let someone know where you are going and when you are expected back. 
  • Lock your car as soon as you enter or leave it. 
  • Look confident and be aware of your surroundings when walking alone. 
  • Plan your route; know exactly where you are going. 
  • Travel in well-lit areas and away from bushes, doorways and buildings. 
  • Walk with a friend whenever possible.
If you suspect you are being followed:
  • Cross the street.
  • Go to the nearest group of people or into a store.
  • Call the police.

For more information, contact Tom Lynch, Director, Office of Campus Safety.