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University Police

Campus Emergencies

While we’re fortunate to say that emergency events on campus are few, preparation is essential to maintaining a safe campus community. We’ve put together a general guide on how you can prepare yourself in case of an emergency, regardless of whether you live on- or off-campus.

More information available from:

Be Aware of Emergency Alerts

If an Emergency Alert is issued, immediate action may be necessary.

Emergency Alerts are sent in partnership with ISU Emergency Management and are issued in the case of an imminent threat to safety on campus, ranging from severe weather situations to active shooter incidents. Students are automatically registered to receive Emergency Alerts, but parents and family members can sign up or learn more here.

Stay Tuned to Your Student Email

Our other campus advisory notice is a Crime Advisory. Crime Advisories are sent out when a crime occurs on or near campus and does not represent an immediate threat to safety. Students will receive this in their student email inbox. In addition to information about the incident, the advisories contain tips on preventing or avoiding similar incidents in the future.

Parents, family members, and friends can see Crime Advisories on our webpage, the Safe Redbirds app, and our department Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts when appropriate.

Find previous crime advisories here

Know Where to Go

No matter where you are on campus, rooms contain booklets of information on evacuating, sheltering in place, AED and fire extinguisher locations, and more. Do your best to be familiar with the plans for rooms and buildings you frequent.

View a digital, generalized version of this booklet

Build Your Safety Kit

Consider putting together a basic safety kit. While these kits are larger for students with their own vehicles or living off-campus, some basics include:

  • Water
  • Bandages & basic medications
  • Portable battery to keep phone charged
  • Easily accessible emergency contact information (and updated information on My.IllinoisState.edu)

Use Social Media as a Tool

In addition to friends and family, use your social media accounts to stay on top of what’s happening near you. Consider following ISUPD, Normal PD, Bloomington PD, and Illinois State University. In addition, pages like National Weather Service Lincoln and McLean County Emergency Management Agency provide timely information relevant to our area.