Campus Safety and Security

Notifications in Case of an Emergency

In the event of a crisis at Western, the university will use every communication tool at its disposal to share information with the campus community as quickly as possible.

These include:

Students and employees can help by logging into Web4U and making sure that their contact information is up-to-date. It is important that the university know your main phone numbers, including cell phones; it's also helpful for the university to have contact information for your family members in the event of emergency.

Emergency Preparedness

Lockdown Drill Orientation

Options for Consideration

 

Safety Escorts

360-676-6911

  • Safety escorts are available 24 hours a day, including holidays and weekends.
  • Provides a walking escort to campus community members to all locations within Western's campus.

Safety Tips

  • Report safety hazards, unsafe lighting, and defective equipment to Public Safety.
  • Park in an area that will be well-lit after dark. Call 360-676-6911 for a safety escort to walk you to your car, residence hall or campus building at night.
  • Leave nothing visible in your car, even if it is of no value.
  • Do not leave wallets, purses, backpacks and other valuables unattended on campus, even inside your office.
  • Keep your doors locked at home, in the residence hall and in your car.
  • At home, develop a relationship with neighbors that will encourage regularly checking on one another.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Know where you are. Know where you are going and what to expect.
  • Trust your instinct - if you feel uncomfortable in a situation or place, LEAVE!
  • Avoid walking alone and let people know where you are going.
  • Plan your walking trips in advance and choose a safe, well-lit, and populated route.
  • Remember that most crimes occur in response to opportunities.

Emergencies

In an emergency, you need immediate help—dial 9-1-1. Every call placed to 9-1-1 will be answered by a qualified dispatcher. Calls are responded to by a police officer. When you call 9-1-1 they can determine your location and get help to you right away.

Registered Sex Offenders

The Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act of 2000 is a federal law that provides for the tracking of registered sex offenders enrolled at or employed by institutions of higher education.

The law also requires institutions to issue a statement advising members of the campus community where they can find information on registered sex offenders who are enrolled at or employed by the university. You can obtain information regarding registered sex offenders by visiting the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office website or the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs website.