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Stay safe on MSU’s campus with tips from the police department

September 20, 2018
Bike Officer Chad Pride practices his skills at the East Lansing Police Department Open House on July 26, 2018.
Bike Officer Chad Pride practices his skills at the East Lansing Police Department Open House on July 26, 2018. —
Photo by Annie Barker | The State News

Capt. Doug Monette of the MSU Police Department said close interactions with the community help to foster relationships and helps MSUPD best protect and serve.

“We invite people to come to talk to our officers,” Monette said. “We are here 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and our officers are a resource.”

Officers travel around campus on motorcycle, car, mountain bike and foot, Monette said. They eat on campus and are present at campus events. Putting a name to a face is important for people on campus to understand that MSUPD officers are here to help.

“There’s all sorts of resources that we offer at the MSU Police Department,” Monette said. “A lot of those pieces of information, our resources can be found on our website.”

MSU Alert

MSUPD takes responsibility for putting out alerts via text and email about campus crimes. If there is a potentially dangerous development on campus, members of the MSU community will receive alerts providing information about the situation.

By updating MSU with the correct contact information, students, faculty and staff automatically receive these alerts. 

Parents, guardians and guests can also subscribe to receive alerts by texting MSUALERT to 888777.

Run, hide, fight

In the case of a violent offender, MSUPD provides a plan of action for such situations.

Run: Get away from a potentially dangerous situation. If possible call 911 and report the incident.

Hide: If evacuation is not possible, hide. Secure a space, turn off lights, avoid being seen and remain quiet. If possible call 911 and report the incident.

Fight: If an offender enters the secured area and danger is obvious, fight. Yell and try to use the objects at your disposal to debilitate the attacker.

Sexual assault resources

In reported cases of sexual assault, stalking and relationship violence, MSUPD is responsible for criminal investigations.

The department is prepared to answer a victim’s questions and provide resources and support. They will explain the process and keep victims in the loop during the investigation.

Move safe

MSU campus covers 5,200 acres and includes 557 buildings. Getting around can present challenges and even safety concerns.

Move Safe offers tips and tricks to getting around campus safely.

Bikes and mopeds must be registered with MSU Parking Office, 1120 Red Cedar Road, which also provides parking permits.

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To report a crime or call for non-emergencies, the phone number for MSUPD is 517-355-2221. For emergencies call 911.

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