Autumn Safety Message

SEPTEMBER 28, 2023

Subject: Autumn Safety Message

Dear Members of the University Community,

At the Department of Safety & Security (DSS), your safety is our top priority. I write today to share important information on emergency preparedness, transportation, and additional safety-resources available to members of our community.

  • Emergency Preparedness: Emergencies can happen at any time, and we want you to be prepared. Please review the information below for important resources and ways you can improve your emergency preparedness.
    • New emergency preparedness video: This 7-minute video will help you understand what to do in the event of an emergency on campus. It explains some of the alerts and instructions you may receive, and what actions you can take to enhance your safety.
    • cAlert system: The University's cAlert system provides rapid emergency notifications and instructions, via text message, voice calls, and email. I recommend visiting the cAlert website to make sure your contact information and any preferred devices are up to date.
    • cAlert test: DSS will perform a routine, scheduled cAlert system test on Friday, October 6 at 10 a.m. On that day you will receive a message marked "test," to your University email address and any preferred devices you have registered. There is no action required when you receive the test message. 
    • Common cAlert instructions during emergencies: Understanding common instructions given during emergencies can help you take swift and decisive action in challenging circumstances. You can review common cAlert instructions on the DSS website. 
  • UGo Shuttles: UGo Shuttles run day and night on and around the greater campus area. Shuttles are free to all members of the University community by tapping your ID card. Route maps are available on the DSS website and real-time shuttle location information can be found on Transloc (also available as a mobile app).
    • Downtown Connector Expansion: The University recently launched a Downtown Connector shuttle that travels between the Hyde Park campus, the Gleacher Center, downtown UChicago Medical Center clinics, the Roosevelt Red Line CTA station, and other downtown locations. New this Autumn Quarter, and in response to feedback from riders, the Downtown Campus Connector is making stops close to Oglivie and Union stations. Service on the Downtown Campus Connector is Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., excluding holidays.
  • UChicago Safe Social Media Channels: DSS launched social media profiles on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram last winter; we encourage you to follow them for helpful and timely safety-related information. 
  • Additional Safety Resources: The following resources are available to members of our community year-round.
    • UChicago Safe Mobile App: Features of the UChicago Safe mobile safety app include public safety contact information and the ability to send your location in real-time to a friend. 
    • Safety Webpage: The University's safety webpage provides tips for staying safe in the city, around campus, where you live, and while using transportation.
    • Lyft Ride Smart: UChicago students are eligible for seven free Lyft rides per month (up to $10 per ride) from 5 p.m. until 4 a.m. seven days a week. Rides must begin and end in the service area. 
    • Free Garage Parking After-Hours: Members of the University community with an active UChicago ID can park for free after hours at the Ellis Avenue garage and the Kimbark South garage between 5 p.m. and 3 a.m., seven days a week. Just use your ID card to enter and exit. Those who access a garage after hours without a parking permit must exit the facility by 7 a.m. each day to avoid daily parking fees.
    • University of Chicago Police Department (UCPD) Support Services: UCPD provides community support services including residential security assessments, self-defense classes, and victim and witness support services. 
    • Safety Escort Program: Members of the University community who are concerned about their safety for any reason as they walk within the UCPD's patrol area can call 773.702.8181 to request a safety escort. 
    • Stay Informed: Visit the DSS website to sign up for security alerts, timely crime notices, the Daily Crime Bulletin, and additional information.

If you have any questions or concerns about campus safety, contact our team. I wish you a safe and productive quarter.

Sincerely,

Eric M. Heath, Associate Vice President for Safety & Security. 

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