Providing a safe and secure environment, while sustaining and nurturing an open campus, is Georgia Tech’s top priority. The Georgia Tech Police Department (“GTPD”) is a fully operational, nationally accredited state agency, devoted to the protection of the campus and its students, faculty, staff, and visitors. All sworn officers have authority to issue citations, make arrests, and are the first to respond to all campus emergencies.

More than 90 sworn police officers patrol the campus 24-hours a day, on foot, motorcycle, bicycle, car, and ATV (sometimes with a K-9 companion) – but it is important to remember we are located in a large, urban environment. As your student begins college at Tech, they should understand and embrace the following tips to reduce the chance of being a victim of crime. 

Personal Safety

·     LiveSafe, a powerful safety app, was selected by Georgia Tech students and is a free download for smart phones. Popular features include “GoSafe,” which invites roommates, friends, and family to virtually follow students as they travel from one location to another (particularly helpful after a late-night study session).

·     In the event of an emergency, students can contact GTPD through LiveSafe or by calling 404.894.2500. We encourage students to program this number into their cell phones, in addition to downloading the LiveSafe app.

·     GTPD provides free training and safety classes upon request, including self-defense, alcohol and drug awareness, bicycle safety, and Mental Health First Aid. 

·     Bicycles, skateboards, scooters, and “dockless” rental devices are increasingly popular on campus. Students are strongly encouraged to wear a good quality bicycle helmet while riding. It is required that traffic laws and campus usage guidance be followed.

·     In the event that a suspicious or armed person demands their property, students should comply with the request, then immediately seek police assistance. There are more than 500 emergency “blue” phones located inside and outside buildings throughout the campus.

Crime Prevention Tips

·     The most common crimes on campus are thefts of opportunity. Students should never walk away from their belongings or leave them unsecured.

·     All bicycles should be locked on a campus-provided bicycle rack. We strongly suggest using a U-lock to secure your bike.

·     Students who have vehicles on campus should remove or hide all valuables to help prevent break-ins. Leaving any items in plain view —laptops, purses, spare change, books, and gym bags —increases the risk for a vehicle break-in.

·     All residence halls have key or secure-card entry. Students should be wary of anyone who attempts entry without a key.

·     When not in their room, or when asleep, students should keep all doors and windows locked.

·     Cybertheft is on the rise. Students should report to GTPD any kind of unsolicited demand for money or investment “opportunity” they receive, especially from someone who claims to represent the US government. 

·     If students see any suspicious behavior, they should contact GTPD immediately. We are happy to investigate any cause for concern.

Other Safety Measures

·     Students are required to enter emergency contact information on Buzzport. Click on the red phone icon after logging in at buzzport.gatech.edu.

·     Parking & Transportation Services provides after-hours transport options, including the Midnight Rambler and the Stingerette, so students do not have to walk on campus after dark. Students can request Stingerette rides through the LiveSafe app. 

·     GTPD provides after-hours escorts for students who feel unsafe. 

·     The Georgia Tech Counseling Center offers stress management and wellness workshops, as well as free counseling and emergency services for students.

·     Housing staff are on duty 24-hours a day if students lose their keys.

·     GTPD offers many free services including laptop engraving and bicycle registration to help recovery of valuable property in the event of theft. 

·     Campus-wide emergency alerts are delivered through an outdoor siren warning system and to classrooms through computers and projectors that are connected to the campus computer network. In addition, the Georgia Tech Emergency Notification System (GTENS) alerts students to campus-wide emergencies via email. Students can opt into additional voice and text messages by registering at buzzport.gatech.edu.

·     GTPD collaborates with the Atlanta Police Department to increase public safety around the perimeter of the campus.

We pride ourselves on being very interactive with our campus community. You can find our officers in GT1000 classrooms, around campus, and on social media. Please take a few moments to learn more by talking with an officer, exploring our website, police.gatech.edu, and following GTPD on Facebook www.facebook.com/GaTechPD, Instagram or Twitter (@GaTechPD) andTik Tok (@gatech). The Office of Emergency Management (a division of GTPD) also provides emergency management information and updates through prepare.gatech.edu, Facebook www.facebook.com/GTEmergency and Twitter @GTPDalerts.

We value open communication with parents. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns. We look forward to a safe and productive year!