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Campus Safety Reminders

January 13, 2026

Dear members of the Northwestern community,

As the University resumes normal operations in the new year, we want to reshare some important campus safety tips. Your safety is our highest priority.

In summary:

  • Review how to respond to active violence: “Run, Hide, Fight.”
  • Update your emergency contact info, especially cell phone numbers.
  • Report emergencies, crimes and suspicious behaviors as soon as possible.

Responding to active violence

We strongly encourage you to review what to do in an active violence situation. This can be summarized as “Run, Hide, Fight.”

Our safety training video is a great resource for what to do.

Note: This video contains violent content to educate and prepare someone to deal with an active aggressor. Viewer discretion is advised.

More tips are in this emergency procedures infographic.

Update your emergency contact information

In an emergency, seconds count. It is vital that you receive our emergency notices right away, including AlertNU messages via text, email and call.

Text messages are often the best way for us to reach you. Make sure your cell phone is correct in our emergency notification system, Rave. 

Update your contact info with these online instructions. This should take only a couple of minutes.

You will receive AlertNU emails to your Northwestern account automatically.

Report emergencies, crimes or suspicious circumstances

Your vigilance helps keep our community safe. If you see something, say something.
Here are some ways to report concerns:

  • Call NUPD at 847-491-3456 in Evanston or 312-503-3456 in Chicago.
  • Use the Wildcats Aware Reporting Form to report if someone is displaying threatening behavior.
  • Use Report a Concern to share information about a variety of concerns, ranging from policy violations to safety issues.
Additional safety tips
  • Provide routine safety and awareness training to office staff and keep doors secured when possible.
  • Always carry your Wildcard and be alert when entering buildings. Exterior doors should never be propped open. Learn more about building access hours.
  • Always close and lock all residence and office doors and windows when you leave. 
  • Do not leave your belongings unattended. The most common campus crime is property theft of items such as wallets, laptops and cellphones.
  • Be aware of phishing attempts meant to defraud you. Learn how to protect yourself.
The Department of Safety and Security works around the clock to support your safety and well-being. Please visit our website, which details all of our services to the University community.

Bruce A. Lewis
Chief of Police
Senior Associate Vice President for Safety and Security

Luke Figora
Vice President
Chief Operating Officer