Class is back in session. And as the semester gets underway, Golden Eagles are encouraged to prioritize their safety on campus and throughout the City of Hattiesburg. Thankfully, the University Police Department offers a variety of crime prevention and safety programs to help. And options include drug and alcohol awareness,workplace safety, increasing security awareness by reducing personal vulnerability, self-defense, and bicycle safety.
“There are a plethora of ways and methods to enforce safety around campus and the Hattiesburg community,” said Rusty Keyes, Assistant Vice President of Public Safety and Chief of Police at The University of Southern Mississippi Police Department. “The University Police Department (UPD) has many tools and people in place to keep everyone safe. Whether it’s something as small as where to park, how to handle a police interaction, or what to do in an evacuation procedure, the UPD has everything covered.”
And with a simple click of the mouse, members of the Southern Miss community can log onto UPD’s website for personal safety tips that discourage walking and jogging alone and entering isolated areas. The site, however, encourages use of methods such as the department’s escort services and being aware of surroundings. And when in doubt on what UPD can assist with, just ask.
“If a student or staff does not know information concerning safety or who to ask, one can visit UPD’s website,” Keyes said. “There are pamphlets and brochures around campus. And if all else fails, one could call UPD, respectfully approach an officer, or even go to the UPDs building to ask a question and be welcomed. The students and administration know we have their back. We are the community for the community.”