Dear UMB Community:

The fall semester is in full swing at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB). With temperatures falling, it’s nice to see so many members of our community walking across our campus. As we learn, work, and enjoy this vibrant community, I want to take a moment to remind you of some public safety resources:

• Safe Ride is available from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. on campus and in surrounding neighborhoods. Request a Safe Ride through the Mobile UMB app or by calling 410-706-6882.
• Did you know our Safe Ride drivers are UMB security officers? All UMB Police Department (UMBPD) employees undergo a background check before being hired. Meet our dedicated UMBPD Safe Ride drivers.
• Safe Walk is available 24/7 on campus by calling 410-706-6882.
• Please note, because this is a public safety service, our police and security officers must be able to quickly use their radios in the event of an emergency. For this reason, our officers are not able to assist with carrying bags or packages, pushing strollers, or performing other physical activities during a Safe Walk.
• R.A.D. for Women Basic Physical Self-Defense registration is now open! This free course is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Oct. 11 to Nov. 10. The 90-minute sessions are offered at noon to 1:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sign up today — space is limited!
• Social Work Referrals are provided to vulnerable communities through our partnership with the University of Maryland School of Social Work. Fill out the form to help us identify persons who may need case management or resource support.
• UMB Alerts are emergency notifications sent via text, email, website, mobile app, social media, and more. Make sure your information is up to date to receive these important notifications.
• Active Assailant Preparedness provides training opportunities and resources to prepare in the unlikely event of an active assailant. Watch and share our 2-minute video that provides lifesaving information.
• Stay informed by following us on social media and subscribing to our monthly Public Safety newsletter.

Our police and security officers are located throughout UMB at security desks, riding our electric vehicles, and patrolling on foot. While we work hard to be visible and available, we can’t be all places at once. This is why we say, “Safety is a community effort!” You can help create a safe UMB by following a few simple safety tips:

• In an emergency, call 911. The sooner you call, the sooner we can send help. Our 911 system allows us to coordinate emergency services to our UMB community whether you call from a campus phone or your cellphone.
• If you see something, say something. Report suspicious activity to UMBPD at 410-706-6882. If you need help, go inside a UMB building and a security officer can immediately assist you.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions like phones and headphones. Walk in groups when possible and stick to well-lit, well-traveled pathways.
• Lock your valuables. Secure valuable items inside locked desk drawers. Lock your vehicle and bicycle. Take laptops and iPads with you when you leave the area.

I also want to invite you to join me at upcoming Pizza/Coffee with the Chief events. These events are a great opportunity to not only get a free snack, but also to connect with me and other members of our UMBPD leadership team. We hope you will attend and look forward to meeting you!

Sincerely,

Thomas Leone, MSL
UMB Chief of Police