Safety and Security at Indiana State University
At Indiana State University, we prioritize creating a secure, supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. Our Residential Life team works tirelessly to maintain a safe living space for all students. We understand the importance of peace of mind for both students and their families, which is why we implement comprehensive safety measures across our residence halls. However, safety is a shared responsibility. By being proactive, students can help ensure not only their own security but also the safety of their community.
Each residence hall is staffed around the clock, 365 days a year, so help is always just a moment away. Whether it’s responding to emergencies or supporting students, our well-trained Residential Life team is available to assist whenever needed.
In addition, the Indiana State University Public Safety department is staffed by full-time, certified police officers who patrol the campus and collaborate with our residential staff to maintain a safe living environment. Public Safety is available to respond to emergencies at any time, providing a vital layer of security on campus.
Our residence halls feature advanced access control systems. Students use their university ID cards to enter their buildings, while individual rooms and apartments are secured with physical keys. This ensures that only residents and authorized personnel have access.
However, students have a crucial role in maintaining this security. We remind students not to allow "tailgating" or letting others enter the building without swiping their own ID cards. If you let someone in, they effectively become your guest, and you are responsible for their actions while they are in the building. By remaining vigilant, students contribute to the safety of the entire community.
All residence halls are equipped with fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and regularly tested safety protocols. Our staff is trained to handle a variety of emergency scenarios, including severe weather events and medical crises. We conduct regular fire drills and encourage students to familiarize themselves with evacuation routes and emergency exits to stay prepared.
Outside of every residence hall, you’ll find Emergency Call Boxes that provide direct access to Public Safety. Additionally, Indiana State University is equipped with Blue Light Phones across campus. These phones, marked by blue lights, offer a direct connection to the ISU Police Department and 911 services. In an emergency, simply press the "Push for Help" button to summon immediate assistance. For non-emergency situations, such as requesting an escort or reporting minor incidents, the "Info" button can be used.
To further enhance campus safety, Indiana State University offers the Rave Guardian App, a free tool that transforms your smartphone into a personal safety device. With this app, you can:
- Set a Safety Timer to notify a trusted friend or family member if you don’t check in after a certain time.
- Contact Public Safety with the touch of a button, send tips about suspicious activity (even with photos), or share your location during an emergency.
- Utilize Smart911 to ensure your personal profile (including medical and residence information) is visible to emergency responders when you call for help.
The university also uses Rave Alerts, a system that sends instant text notifications to students about emergencies or safety incidents on or near campus
We encourage all students to save these important contact numbers in their phones. In case of any safety or health concerns, help is always available:
- Public Safety: (812) 237-5555
- Dean of Students: (812) 237-3888
- Counseling Center: (812) 237-3939
- TimelyCare: timelycare.com/indianastate
- Student Health Center: (812) 237-3883
- Student Support & Accountability: (812) 237-7942