Spring Safety Message

MARCH 27, 2025

Dear Members of the University Community, 

With the Spring Quarter underway, I want to share some important safety tips and resources. For a comprehensive list of our recent safety initiatives, please visit the Department of Safety & Security (DSS) website. 

If you haven’t done so already, I encourage you to download the UChicago Safe mobile app and also follow UChicago Safe on Instagram, Facebook, and X for helpful and timely safety-related information. 

  • Safety resources website: The University’s safety resources webpage offers valuable tips for staying safe in the city, around campus, at home, and while using transportation. In the winter safety message, we announced an approximate 54% year-over-year reduction in robberies on campus in 2024, and an approximate 38% reduction in robberies in the University of Chicago Police Department’s (UCPD) extended patrol area. While these statistics are encouraging, it is important to remember that crime occurs in every major city, and being prepared is essential. As the weather gets warmer and you spend more time outdoors, I recommend reviewing these resources to stay informed and proactive about your safety. 

  • Pedestrian safety: Spring is an important time to raise awareness about pedestrian safety. This safety guide provides tips for both drivers and pedestrians traveling around campus. Remember that in Illinois, pedestrians have the right-of-way when crossing the street once they have entered the crosswalk. However, pedestrians should still exercise caution and not assume drivers will stop. This summer, the University will work with the City of Chicago’s Department of Transportation to continue enhancing pedestrian safety infrastructure in key areas near campus. Planned improvements include installing painted “bump-outs” and flexible bollards to help protect crosswalks; yellow flashing crosswalk lights; speed feedback signs in high-traffic areas; and improving the overall design and functionality of crosswalks. 

  • Transportation survey: This spring, we are conducting a survey on the University’s transportation system to help us better understand the daily travel patterns and needs of our community. The survey, which will be open to all members of the University community, includes questions about the UGo shuttle system, the RideSmart by Via system, parking, public transportation, and more. Keep an eye on your inbox in early April for a link to the confidential survey. We value your feedback as we continually refine our transportation system to meet your needs. 

  • Protests and free expression: Earlier this year, Campus and Student Life launched a Free Expression Resources website with updates and clarifications on policies related to free expression and protest on campus. Please review the information on this site as well as the University’s Protest and Demonstrations Policy and the Civil Behavior in a University Setting Policy. 

     

Here are some additional safety resources are available at the University of Chicago; a complete list is on our website: 

  • 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.

  • UGo shuttles: UGo is the University’s free shuttle service available to all members of the University community. Shuttles run day and night on campus, around Hyde Park, and to/from downtown Chicago. For information about routes and timing, visit the Shuttle Service webpage. 

  • Emergency preparedness: Emergencies can happen at any time, and we want you to be prepared. This 7-minute video will help you understand what to do in the event of an emergency on campus and explains some of the instructions you may receive and actions you can take to enhance your safety. For fire safety information and action plans, see this flyer. 

  • cAlert system: In the event of a campus emergency, the University’s cAlert system provides rapid emergency notifications and instructions via text message, voice calls, email, and push notifications through the UChicago Safe mobile app. Please visit the cAlert website to make sure your contact information and preferred device are up to date. 

  • Communications resources: DSS provides multiple ways to stay informed about crimes on and off campus. This map provides information about the boundaries for the alerts and notifications that the University sends.

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

Sincerely,

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

 

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