Category: Messages to Students, Messages to the Community

Title: Staying Safe This Halloween Weekend

Dear Students,

In recent years, we have seen an uptick in crime and safety incidents around Halloween occurring in the immediate areas off campus. In response, we are enhancing patrols and coordinating closely with the Metropolitan Police Department.

Please remain aware of your surroundings and use safety best practices when traveling through the neighborhood and city. Please also be considerate of our neighbors and the directions of our Student Neighborhood Assistance Program (SNAP) team.

  • Walking Safety: Never walk alone at night, and always walk along well-lit and well-traveled routes. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions like being on your phone or wearing earbuds while traveling.
  • Emergency Contacts: Call for help if you feel threatened. If on campus, call GUPD at (202) 687-4343 (add this number to your phone contacts today); if off campus, call 911.
  • Safe Transportation Options: Use the SafeRides safety shuttle service by calling (202) 784-7433 or requested via the LiveSafe app. The service is available seven days a week, from 8 p.m.- 2 a.m. (Sunday-Wednesday) and 8 p.m.- 3 a.m. (Thursday-Saturday). You can also use the late night neighborhood shuttles on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 10 p.m.-3 a.m. All shuttles start and end at the front gates and run on a continuous loop from Georgetown to K Street.
  • Tailgating/Building Security: Please pay particular attention to the issue of “tailgating,” where residents knowingly or unknowingly allow unauthorized individuals to pass through GOCard-accessed entrances with them or behind them. Lock your residence doors, both on and off campus, even if you’re home.
  • LiveSafe: Download the LiveSafe app for emergency response information and the ability to communicate with GUPD (anonymously if you prefer). You can use its “SafeWalk” feature to share your location in real time with friends or family as you walk to your destination.

Please contact GUPD at police@georgetown.edu or (202) 687-4343 with any questions.

Have a safe and happy Halloween.

Sincerely,

Jay Gruber
Chief of Police, Associate Vice President for Public Safety