The University of Iowa strives to provide a safe and healthy environment in which our students, faculty, staff, and visitors can live and work. There are various resources and departments on campus to assist you in feeling safe and achieving success. Below are a few tips and resources to keep in mind.

If this is an emergency and you need immediate assistance, contact UIPD (319-335-5022) or call 911.

On Campus

  • Use well-lit, high traffic routes for walking. Remember you can always use NiteRide or SafeRide for free.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Listening to music or talking on your phone can be a distraction and may increase your vulnerability.
  • Be an active bystander if you see someone at risk or in trouble. Intervene, get help, or check in because Hawkeyes help Hawkeyes!
  • Trust your gut. It makes sense to take precautions to reduce the risk presented by strangers, but many crimes are perpetrated by people we know. Be selective as you form new relationships. Only hang out with people who respect your boundaries, treat you with respect, and value your opinions.

Residence Halls

  • Always lock your door!
  • Do not prop open exterior doors, even during the day.
  • Watch out for "tailgaters" - do not let people you do not know follow you into secure buildings. If they belong, have them use their own key.
  • Be responsible for your guests.
  • Never lend your key or student ID to anyone.

Online

  • Do not share personal information (address, cell phone number, passwords, account numbers, etc.) on social network sites or by email.
  • Be selective about what you share online and with whom. Trust your gut!
  • If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Do your research.
  • Be cautious when clicking on links from people you don't know.

Resources:

  • Campus Inclusion Team (CIT): The Campus Inclusion Team (CIT) provides support and resources to any student with a concern about diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Office of Institutional Equity - Equity Investigations Unit: For reporting discrimination or harassment based on age, race, religion, disability, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, veteran status, or other aspects of personal identity
  • Hawk Alert & Code Blue Phones: An online emergency notification system and emergency telephones placed across campus.
  • Hawk Watch powered by Rave Guardian: Hawk Watch allows users to invite friends, family, or UI Department of Public Safety to act as a virtual safety escort, or “guardian,” when they travel from one location to another.
  • Office of the Dean of Students: The Office of the Dean of Students supports student success through education, advocacy, and collaboration.
  • Office of Institutional Equity - Title IX and Gender Equity Unit: The Title IX and Gender Equity Unit provides information about reporting options, resources, and referrals in cases of sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, and domestic violence.
  • Rape Victim Advocacy Program (RVAP): RVAP provides free, confidential services for all affected by sexual violence.
  • Responsible Action Protocol (RAP): A student who calls for or seeks emergency assistance for themselves or on behalf of a student experiencing an alcohol or other drug related emergency may not be subject to status sanctions under the Code of Student Life.
  • Student Care & Assistance: Student Care & Assistance provides support to students experiencing crisis or emergency situations, which may include hospitalization, medical emergencies, mental health concerns, natural disasters, and other unexpected events or challenges.
  • Threat Assessment and Care Team (TAT): TAT is dedicated to the early identification, assessment and management of incidents and behaviors that threaten the safety and well-being of the university community.
  • University Housing and Dining Safety: Residence hall staff members take many steps to promote the safety of residents. As with any security system, all building residents play a significant role in ensuring their own safety.
  • University of Iowa Public Safety and Police (UIPD): UIPD's mission is to provide each member of the University of Iowa community with a sense of security throughout campus by creating a safe learning environment at all times and educating students, faculty and staff in matters of protection and personal responsibility.
  • University of Iowa Safety and Support: the UI has a number of resources that can help address a wide range of concerns—from personal safety to academic or employment issues.