Georgetown University

Campus Safety

Emergencies can occur at any time, often without warning. Preparation is the responsibility of every member of our community. Every member of the University community needs to help promote campus safety. Individuals should prepare with supplies, a plan to stay in touch, and information about what to do in an emergency, and what's happening during a disaster.

Status and Alerts

Severe and Inclement Weather: Georgetown University makes every effort to maintain a safe and operational campus environment in the event of snow and inclement weather. Decisions about a change in operating status or campus closure due to weather are determined by the Academic Leadership after conducting a check of local and campus weather conditions in consultation with University Facilities.

Public Safety Alerts: The Department of Public Safety electronically alerts members of the campus community to reported incidents of crime on or near campus when there could be a continuing threat to the safety of students, faculty or staff and to enlist their help in apprehending alleged suspects involved.

Buildings and Access

Building Security and Access: During normal hours of operation visitors can enter and exit most campus facilities without going through a security checkpoint. After a building is secured for the evening, it can only be accessed by a key or university identification card (GOCard). Residence Halls are secure 24/7.

Identification Cards (GOCard): The GOCard is a single, common, and recognizable identification card for people affiliated with Georgetown University. The GOCard can be programmed for appropriate faculty, staff and students to gain access to campus buildings and is also a debit card that can be used for purchases on campus and at nearby establishments.

Student Guards: Student guards play an integral role in protecting the campus community. They supplement security guards at the entrances to residence halls and other facilities to help maintain security and enforce building access policies.

Vehicle Access: Georgetown University limits vehicular access to campus for safety and security reasons. Access policies may change due to campus events, or in response to local and/or federal terrorism threat levels. Learn more about Georgetown and the Homeland Security Threat Level.

Power Outage: In the event of a power outage, many facilities are equipped with emergency generators. Buildings also are equipped with emergency lighting to allow for a safe evacuation. To report a power outage, call (202) 687-3432.

If the power goes out in the building you are occupying, take the following steps:

• Remain calm.
• Follow directions of the residence life staff, marshals, or DPS.
• Get your keys and warm clothing (if seasonally applicable), and lock the doors behind you to secure personal or office property.
• Do not light candles. Use flashlights only.
• Unplug large electrical equipment.

Trapped in an Elevator: Call (202) 687-4343 immediately from a cellular phone or Blue Light Phone, or use the emergency phone located in the elevator to contact help. Provide specific information to the dispatcher about the location and the nearest stairwell. If outside the elevator, let the passengers know that you have called for help if you can communicate with them.

Chemicals and Hazardous Materials: If you work in an area that contains chemical, biological, radiological, or other hazardous materials, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the processes and requirements involved in handling these substances. If you have questions or concerns contact the Office of Safety and Environmental Management at (202) 687-6913 or Environmental Health & Safety at (202) 687-4712.
Security and Prevention

Emergency Phones: Emergency phones, intercoms and call boxes are located throughout the Georgetown campus. Call boxes, easily identified by a bright blue light on top of them, are situated at strategic locations throughout campus for emergency use and call directly to DPS.

Closed Circuit Television Cameras: The Department of Public Safety, like many other professional police forces including the District of Columbia Metropolitan Police Department, uses closed circuit television cameras to support its public safety operations and combat crime on and near campus. These cameras are strategically located in public areas on and near campus, with a focus on locations that have been identified as potential targets for crime.

External Partnerships: Georgetown University leverages its location in Washington, DC by partnering with local and federal law enforcement authorities and other local entities to provide resources and assistance in the event of a critical emergency situation. These entities are regularly involved in planning and training efforts with the Department of Public Safety and other University officials and have repeatedly demonstrated their effectiveness in responding to critical incidents.