Dear UMB Community:

Welcome (or welcome back!) to another amazing year at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB)! Whether you’re new to UMB or returning for another year, the beginning of the semester is a great time to review simple steps you can take to stay safe. Please take a few moments to read the tips below for the safety of yourself and our UMB community. 

• Be informed. One of the best ways to stay safe is to be informed! We provide emergency alerts and safety updates year-round. 
  • Sign up for UMB Alerts. This system is used to send emergency information and weather-related closings via email, text, and phone. Make sure your information is up to date.
  • Subscribe to the monthly public safety newsletter.Our newsletter comes right to your inbox with information about safety training, upcoming events, safety tips, and more. Subscribe today. 
  • Follow us. Social media is the best way to stay current with UMB Police and Public Safety. Get to know us and engage with us! We’re on Facebook, Twitter (X), and Instagram.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Walking across campus may seem like a great time to catch up on emails, texts, and phone calls, but distractions can be unsafe. Put away your cellphone and headphones. Instead, pay attention to vehicle traffic, pedestrians, and bicycles.
• Secure your valuables. Don’t rely on someone else to watch your phone, computer, or other valuables. Always take your property with you. Keep it secure in a bag with a zipper or clasp.
  • Bicycles: Use a u-lock and a chain to secure your bicycle frame and both tires to a bike rack. Make sure the lock is closed tight before you leave!
  • Vehicles: Keep your vehicle locked whether you’re inside the car or leaving your vehicle to go to work or class. When you leave your car, close the windows, put your valuables out of sight, and take your keys with you. Never leave your car running while unattended. Consider using an anti-theft device, like a steering wheel lock. 
• Travel in groups (or let us take you where you’re going). Walk in well-lit, well-traveled areas. When possible, walk in a group. 
  • Safe Walk is available 24/7 on campus. Call 410-706-6882 (6-6882 from an on-campus phone) and a uniformed security officer will walk with you to your destination.
  • Safe Rideis available from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. on campus and in surrounding neighborhoods. Request a ride through the Mobile UMB app (read about small changes to the app) or by calling 410-706-6882 (6-6882 from an on-campus phone). The wait time for a Safe Ride is about 10 minutes, but it could be longer during inclement weather or high-traffic times. We appreciate your patience and kindness toward our Safe Ride drivers! Learn more about Safe Walk and Safe Ride.
• Take advantage of our community outreach initiatives.Our Community Outreach and Support Team provides a wide array of services to our employees, students, and the surrounding community.
  • Relieve your stress. Our comfort K9 provides stress relief and affection. He’s especially great when deadlines and exams are looming! Request a visit with comfort K9 Poe.
  • Provide support to vulnerable populations. We work with the University of Maryland School of Social Work to provide critical resources to those in need. If you see someone who might need help, please fill out our social worker referral form.
  • Consider your comfort level. As you travel in downtown Baltimore, you may encounter panhandlers or squeegee workers. Asking for money or food is not a crime, but how you respond is your choice. If you choose to give,consider giving food, clothing, water, or small change. Avoid pulling out your wallet or withdrawing money from an ATM. If you chose not to give, say “sorry, no” and move on. Remember, a smile and a kind word go a long way, and they’re free! 
• Report suspicious activity. Trust your gut. If you see something, say something! UMB Police and Public Safety is here day or night. Call 410-706-6882 (6-6882 from an on-campus phone) or go inside a UMB building and speak with a security officer. In an emergency, always call 911. 

Your safety is our top priority. Our police and security officers can be easily found inside UMB buildings, patrolling our University, and by calling 410-706-6882. We also hope you’ll stop by our table to say hello at the Campus Involvement Fair on Friday, Sept. 15. Have a fantastic semester and stay safe.

Sincerely,

Thomas Leone, MSL
Assistant Vice President for Public Safety and Chief of Police