Community Handbook: Safety and Security

Blue Emergency Phones

Blue Emergency Phones are located throughout the University campus and are available to provide direct access to emergency assistance. These phones can be identified by the blue light located on top of the unit. Some emergency phones are mounted directly to buildings, while others are located on freestanding pedestals. Each phone is labeled “Emergency” and provides a direct connection to University Police Department (UPD) emergency dispatchers.

Door Access System

Residential Living and Learning (RLL) utilizes secure access systems on many doors throughout residential communities to enhance the safety and security of residents. Residents are prohibited from propping open secured access doors, as doing so may damage the door or access system and may allow unauthorized individuals to enter residential facilities.

Residents should immediately report any propped, damaged, or malfunctioning access doors to Residential Living and Learning staff so the issue can be addressed promptly. Maintaining secure access points is a shared responsibility and helps ensure the safety of the residential community.

Fire Alarm System

Each building is equipped with a fire alarm system. Residents are required to evacuate the building during the sounding of all alarms unless told otherwise by a member of the building staff and/or the University Police Department. Residents are prohibited from tampering with these systems, including but not limited to pulling fire alarms when no fire or threat of fire is present, playing with fire extinguishers, covering smoke detectors, and hanging items on or playing with the sprinkler system within the building. Failure to adhere to this policy could result in a fine of up to $500. (See Policy and Procedures for evacuation plans.)

When an alarm sounds, residents should do the following:

  1. Immediately close windows.
  2. Grab keys, phone, and University ID card.
  3. Wake your roommate and inform them of the alarm.
  4. Put on shoes and grab a jacket (if during night and/or colder months)
  5. Check the door or doorknob. If it is cool, open it and proceed toward the closest emergency exit to the assigned meeting location. If it is hot, do not open it; place a towel under the door. If smoke is either seen or smelled, call 911 and inform them of your location.
  6. Leave the door closed and walk to the exit. If smoke is encountered, stay low for air.
  7. Do not use an elevator.
  8. Do not re-enter the building until cleared by UPD or a Residential Living and Learning staff member.

Lion Safe App

The Lion Safe App provides residents with important safety resources and emergency tools to help support personal safety and emergency preparedness. The app includes access to safety information, a mobile blue light emergency feature, a Friend Walk feature, current weather updates, and additional resources.

The Lion Safe App is available at no cost and can be downloaded through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Residents are encouraged to download and utilize the app as an additional resource for staying informed and connected to campus safety services.

Outdoor Warning System (OWS)

The Outdoor Warning Systems are commonly called “tornado sirens” or just “sirens.” However, it's important to understand that the Outdoor Warning System is meant to cover all hazards. As the name suggests, the system targets people who are outdoors. Those indoors may not hear the OWS due to reasons like the TV or radio being on, a vacuum cleaner running, etc. OWS should only serve as an additional warning tool for individuals. It can be used to alert citizens about tornadoes, hail, hazardous material incidents, civil emergencies, and any other imminent threat that could endanger lives and property nearby.

Pride Alert Warning System (PAWS)

The Pride Alert Warning System (PAWS) is a mass notification system that informs students, faculty, and staff of school closings and emergencies. If you wish to participate, sign up on myLeo under the ‘Apps’ section. In the event of severe weather, school closures, or any other emergency, you will be contacted by phone, text message, and email.

Smoke Detectors

Each residence hall and apartment community is equipped with smoke detectors to support the safety and well-being of residents. Smoke detectors located within residential spaces are inspected annually by the Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) to ensure proper operation.

Residents should immediately report any issues with smoke detectors, including intermittent beeping, malfunctioning devices, or low battery indicators, by submitting a work order for repair or replacement. Residents should not attempt to remove, disable, cover, or tamper with smoke detectors or other fire safety equipment. Removing or tampering with a smoke detector is a violation of Residential Living and Learning (RLL) policy and may result in University Police Department (UPD) notification and response

Sprinkler System

In addition to the fire alarm system, sprinklers have been installed in many residential communities. These measures are in place for the safety and protection of residents, their belongings, and the University’s property. According to the NFPA 2018, nothing can be stacked, stored, or constructed within 18 inches of a sprinkler head (non-sprinkler residential communities are 24” from the ceiling). Hanging objects from sprinkler heads is strictly prohibited. Report any damage to the sprinkler system to the front desk of your residential community immediately.

Ways to protect yourself and your property

East Texas A&M University (ETAMU) is not responsible for the loss, theft, or damage of residents' personal property, including money, valuables, or other belongings. Residents are encouraged to review their personal or family insurance policies to determine whether coverage is provided for belongings while living on campus. If coverage is not available, residents are encouraged to consider purchasing renters' insurance.

Residential Living and Learning (RLL) partners with GradGuard to provide residents with an optional renters' insurance option designed specifically for college students. Residents may learn more about coverage options and enroll through their myLeo Housing Portal.

Residents can help protect themselves and their belongings by following these recommendations:

  • Keep room and apartment doors locked at all times and never loan keys or access credentials to others. Report lost keys or access devices immediately to RLL staff.
  • Keep a record of valuable belongings, including serial numbers, and consider using UPD's free engraving and property registration services.
  • Keep vehicles locked and store valuables out of sight.
  • Register bicycles with UPD and secure them when not in use.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and report suspicious activity to the University Police Department (UPD) at (903) 886-5868.
  • Taking preventative steps and maintaining appropriate insurance coverage can help reduce the impact of unexpected loss or damage to personal property.
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