Public Safety partners with law enforcement for a safe campus

It's that time of year when we start thinking about inclement weather-that first big snow or ice storm brings questions, most notably, "Do I report to class or work today?" We thought this would be a good time to review the University's policies and procedures related to inclement weather, but also to look at some of the other ways that Public Safety is working around the clock to keep the campus community safe.

USI Public Safety maintains 24-hour, seven-day-a-week security coverage of the campus. Duties for the 30-person staff include traffic control, security of physical assets, and safety of all employees, students and guests. In addition, the staff is trained in first aid and other emergency procedures. The staff includes officers, dispatchers, parking attendants and student workers.

One of the most important ways Public Safety keeps our campus safe is by partnering with local law enforcement. In fact, you may have noticed an increase in the number of sheriff's deputies on and around campus since the beginning of the fall semester. The uniformed Vanderburgh County Sheriff's deputies can be seen patrolling campus roadways, walking along pathways and sidewalks, and even stationed inside campus buildings.

"We made a decision to increase the number of off-duty deputies on campus this semester," said Steve Woodall, director of Public Safety. "It's just our way of helping our community feel more secure while here on campus. By having additional officers on campus, we're able to respond much faster if an emergency arises."

Partnering with local law enforcement is nothing new for the University. Both Woodall and Steve Bequette, assistant director of Public Safety, worked in law enforcement before being hired by USI. "Over the years, we've been able to maintain relationships that have resulted in a very positive asset for this University," said Woodall. For years, USI has employed off-duty deputies at athletic events, for special occasions such as commencements, on-campus speakers and gatherings, and for general patrols, including overnight hours on campus.

USI's own Public Safety officers can enforce the Student Code of Conduct and respond to emergencies, but are not authorized to make arrests, and don't carry weapons. "We've always relied on other agencies or departments to assist us when needed," said Woodall. "Responding as quickly as possible, when any type of emergency presents itself, has always been our top priority."

Inclement Weather

When it comes to inclement weather, safety is the first concern, but providing students with a quality education is a strong second. If it's felt that most students, faculty and staff can get to campus safely, the University will likely open for the day or operate on a delay if needed.

Ron Rochon, provost, is responsible for making the decision to remain open or close for the day after consultation with Steve Woodall, director of Public Safety. The decision is based on a number of factors including first hand review of current conditions, consultation with local and state law enforcement, highway departments and other officials, and weather forecasts.

There are several ways that faculty, staff and students can receive information about whether the University will open, or remain open, during inclement weather. The best way is to be signed up for automatic RAVE emergency messaging alerts that arrive via text, phone and email. If you're not already signed up, information on registering and managing setting can be found online.

In addition to RAVE alerts, the University posts information on its Web homepage, on social media and on the Public Safety Emergency page. Additional updates related to food service, bus operation and facility hours are posted to this page throughout the event. Information is also relayed to local media to be included with the latest public listings of delays and closings.

"We always encourage individuals to use their best judgement in deciding whether or not it's safe to travel when we're open," said Woodall. "If you don't know if you should be at work or class, or you don't feel safe traveling, as a student, you should contact your professor or dean, and as faculty or staff, you should consult your supervisor. It's always a good idea to have these conversations even before the weather turns bad."

Additional Public Safety Resources

The USI Public Safety website contains a wealth of information including policies, services, tips and a number of other resources. Links provide access to crime reporting information, victim support services, alcohol and drug prevention and response information, silent witness report forms and more.

Additional important links include:

• Sexual Assault Prevention and Response
• Severe Weather Safety Tips
• Active Shooter Response
• Security Escort
• Tip Line

USI's Public Safety office is located in the Public Safety Building located behind University Center West. They can be reached for general business at 812-464-1845 or, for emergencies, at 812-492-7777.