Dear UMB Community:

Welcome - whether virtually or in person - to another academic year at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB). Since 2016, I've had the pleasure of meeting many members of our UMB community, and I am now proud to serve as interim chief of the UMB Police Department (UMBPD).

For those returning to campus, our Safe Walk service continues to be available 24/7 by calling 410-706-6882 (6-6882 from a campus phone). Our police and security officers are wearing masks and maintaining proper physical distancing for your safety and theirs. Please don't hesitate to call - we're here to get you to your destination safely.

While our Safe Ride service is suspended, I am working with UMB leadership to determine alternate services, such as discounted rides on Lyft, and will send an update when more information is available.

Now also is a good time to brush up on safety tips, whether you're working or learning at UMB or from home:

• Put cellphones and headphones away. When you step outside, this simple distraction can make you and your phone easy targets. I like to say, "Don't WebEx and walk!"
• Be aware of your surroundings. Stick to major streets and avoid alleys. Walk in groups or call for a Safe Walk. If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe, go inside a building and tell a security officer.
• Don't text and drive. Don't Zoom and zoom. Whatever way you want to say it - put your phone away, slow down, and stop for pedestrians in crosswalks.
• Lock your valuables, vehicles, and bikes. Never leave valuable items unattended. Keep desirable items in your vehicle's trunk or out of sight. Lock your vehicle, even when you're in the car.
• If you see something, say something! Our police and security officers can be easily found on campus, but we can't be everywhere at once. Help keep UMB safe - our police communications operators are available day or night at 410-706-6882, or you can use one of our 31 blue light phones located throughout campus. And in an emergency, always call 911!

As we all adapt to and evolve with the COVID-19 pandemic, UMBPD remains committed to our community's safety. We've increased the number of security officers on campus, especially during the high-traffic morning and afternoon commutes. Take a moment to say hello, and please reach out if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Thomas Leone
UMB Interim Chief of Police