On-campus Safety and Security Measures
In addition to our already-established emergency procedures, there are many safety and security measures in place.
- Our officers patrol the grounds in marked police cruisers, on foot, and on bicycles. Approach us at any time.
- Most student residence halls and a number of academic buildings use an electronic ID access system.
- Guards monitor residence hall entrances from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m., and the three of our major parking lots (2, 4, and 15) are monitored 24 hours per day.
- Security cameras monitor entrances to most campus buildings, as well as the new soccer field and track.
- Emergency telephones are installed throughout the campus. They are marked by blue lights on the residence halls, track, Harold C. Smith Learning Commons, Portsmouth Street Warehouse, and the Brennan Center.
- The College conducts crime prevention and awareness programs in the residence halls.
Safety Escorts
Safety escorts are available anywhere on the campus 24 hours a day by calling the Department of Public Safety at (413) 748-3516.
Shuttle Service
The College shuttle is available for transportation from classes, academic programs, and activities to campus residences and parking lots. The shuttle operates seven days a week during the academic year. To contact us about the shuttle service, call (413) 748-3400. Learn more.
Campus Safety Tips
Be alert and use common sense to stay safe. When you go out, keep these tips in mind.
- Be aware of your surroundings when using earbuds, headphones, and anything else that might impair your hearing.
- Do not hesitate to report suspicious activity or suspicious individuals.
- Do not attempt to enter into conversation with a suspicious individual.
- Learn the best routes between your residence hall and your classes and activities. Take the safest route, not the fastest route.
- Travel in groups of two or more at night.
- Walk in well-lit, heavily traveled areas.
- Share your class schedule with friends and family, effectively creating a buddy system.
- When you go out, let someone know where you are going and when you plan to be back.
- Know where the emergency telephones are located.
- Use the escort or shuttle service. Call (413) 748-3400 to arrange for a walking escort or a shuttle ride. Wait in a safe place for the escort or ride.
- Wherever you are, stay alert to your surroundings and the actions of people around you.
- Follow your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, change directions, go to an emergency phone or into a public building, or call us at (413) 748-5555.
- Make sure that you have the Rave Guardian app downloaded on your phone.
Residence Hall Safety Tips
- Never lend out your room key or ID.
- Report any suspicious persons or activity immediately.
- Do not leave valuables in the open, and do not carry a lot of cash.
- Always lock your room door, even if you only leave for a few minutes.
- Never prop exterior doors, or let strangers in. This is your home.
Classroom, Lab, and Office Safety Tips
- Avoid working or studying alone in a building late at night. If you must, notify the police where you are, and when you leave. Use the escort service.
- Keep personal items such as coats, purses, or laptops in a locked cabinet or drawer.
- Don't leave valuables unattended.
- Never prop doors.
- Report any suspicious persons or activity immediately.
Street and Parking Lot Safety Tips
- Park in a well-lit lot.
- Do not leave valuables in plain view in your car.
- Walk in groups after dark, or use the escort service.
- Use your alarm system.
- Lock your doors, and keep your windows rolled up.
- Always have your keys ready and in hand. Immediately lock your doors.
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
- Report any suspicious persons or activity immediately.