The University of Colorado at Boulder has taken several steps, many as part of long-term programs, to help ensure the safety and well-being of its students for the fall semester.
In the past three years, approximately $1 million has been spent on safety improvements on campus including new emergency call boxes and lighting, according to Chief Jim Fadenrecht of the CU Police department. Currently, there are 31 freestanding call boxes located throughout the campus and 16 wall-mounted units in parking garages. Community service aides check the call boxes on a weekly basis to be sure they are working properly.
"The response has been that the improvements made on campus have been effective and now there are things being done off campus as well," Fadenrecht said. "New call boxes have been installed on the Hill, as well as some lighting improvements to help in areas that are heavily used by students off campus."
According to Fadenrecht, the future initiatives include a safety campaign to let people know what programs are out there.
The CU-Boulder Police force will be staffed with a total of 40 full-time officers to respond to reports of criminal acts and emergencies. Depending on the time of day, there will be between three and nine officers patrolling the campus.
In addition to the police patrols, NightRide/NightWalk provides students, faculty and staff with escorts around the CU campus and anywhere within the Boulder city limits upon request.Ìý
NightRide/NightWalk began in 1985 and has increased in both use and funding over the years. The program's main operation is housed in the University Memorial Center.
For students who want to improve their ability to defend themselves, self defense classes are offered at the student Recreation Center. According to Larry Schwarz, instruction program coordinator at the student Recreation Center, women's self defense courses - and a variety of martial arts classes -- will be held during both the fall and spring semesters.Ìý
For information on self defense classes call (303) 492-6880.