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.