Ensure Safety with These Resources
Although the Ole Miss campus and the city of Oxford allow for students and residents to feel safe and comfortable, there is always more you can do to further ensure your safety. Here is a list of resources, items that can be purchased, and protocols to take for your peace of mind.
Resources
UPD
The dedicated on-campus police department is a great resource and should be your first thought when it comes to campus safety. They set up tents in the Grove on weekends in case of any emergencies. They are always concerned about the students’ safety. One of the best uses of this on-campus police department is if something happens to someone at a party. Their main concern then is helping that student, not busting the party activities.
Emergency Phone Towers
One resource that is regularly overlooked is the emergency phone towers that are strategically placed around campus. These work by pressing the provided button, and you are connected to UPD immediately for assistance. The most well-known stations are in front of Farley Hall, near the baseball field, Fulton Chapel, the Union parking lot, the Turner Center, and so many more.
Rebel Patrol Safe Walks
If you are ever concerned with walking alone on campus, UPD officers are available to provide on-campus rides when Rebel Patrol is not on duty. You can call for a walk-along at (662) 915-7234.
Title IX
One of the best resources when it comes to safety is knowledge. You should always know where to go in a situation. Title IX covers sexual harassment and misconduct. You can file a formal complaint regarding Title IX with the Title IX coordinator in person, by mail, or by e-mail.
Visit eorc.olemiss.edu/title-ix-coordinator for more information.
Self Defense Classes
Another great way to ensure your safety is to feel prepared for situations. One of the best ways to accomplish this is by taking advantage of free self-defense classes. Oxford Police Department hosts a session every month. Their next sessions are on September 20th, October 18th, and November 15th.
Items
Pepper Spray
Pepper Spray is a simple addition to your keys that allows for peace of mind at arm's reach.
Personal Alarm
This is also a simple addition to your keys. Most of the ones on the market double as a flashlight too!
Stun Gun
A bolder approach, but this is also a great resource. You can keep this in your house, car, or backpack. Really wherever you think you will need it.
Apple AirTag
This item is great for people who won’t always have their phones on them. One of the most popular ways this has been used is by adding this to clothes while running, walking, or any type of exercise outside.
Drink Cover
For those that need extra peace of mind when out on the town, invest in a cover for your drink. This will block any substances to be dropped in there while talking or enjoying your night.
Portable Door Lock
An extra precaution at home is the portable door lock. This is a fantastic investment, especially for frequent travelers, so you can always have the peace of mind that people cannot get into the door you use this on!
You can check out all these products on our Amazon Storefront.
Protocols
Life360
This app is a great way to see your friends’ locations all at one time, in real-time!
Find My Friends
If you don’t want to download an app to see your friends’ locations, Find My Friends is another great option! Just make sure you select ‘always share’ rather than ‘share one time’.
Walking Buddies
One of the simplest ways to ease any concerns about safety is to travel with a friend! Traveling in groups is great, but still, continue to keep track of how many people are in your group. No stragglers!
Safety is first and foremost to us all and these resources are just a few ways to help! Feel free to pass along and share with anyone who might not be aware of the many safety resources our campus provides.