Personal Safety

If a situation is life threatening or could result in harm to yourself or others, call 9-1-1.

What should I do if I feel threatened or in an unsafe situation?
When in doubt, call ISU Police by dialing 9-1-1. This number is continuously monitored by trained communication officers. It should be used to report an incident where an immediate response is required by police, fire or paramedics. If using a cell phone, be sure to state that this is an ISU emergency.

For example, call 9-1-1 when:

  • Someone is hurt or very sick.
  • You see a fire or smell smoke.
  • You see something suspicious or someone committing a crime.
  • You need emergency help for any reason.

If you are a victim of an attack or threat:

  • Avoid panicking or showing anger or fear. Remaining calm is the best approach to a threat or possible attack.
  • Never get in a physical confrontation over your personal valuables or university equipment/valuables. Such things are not worth the risk of serious bodily harm.
  • Try to get a good description of your aggressor. When the aggressor leaves the area and you feel safe, write down his/her description.

For non-emergencies, phone 515-294-4428. For non-emergencies, phone ISU Police at 515-294-4428 to initiate the appropriate response to an unsafe situation you may be experiencing regardless of how big or how small the concern. This number is monitored 24 hours a day. A dispatcher will take down the information and relay it to an officer. That officer will then come to your location and take a report if necessary. You may also report crimes in person at the Armory building, room 55.

For urgent counseling, phone 515-294-5056 (after hours, phone 515-433-0316). If you have an urgent matter concerning yourself or others and feel it would be important to speak to a counselor, please call the Student Counseling Service (SCS) desk at 515-294-5056. Let the receptionist know that you are requesting a same-day crisis appointment or simply come to the office on the third floor of the Student Services Building. SCS counselors hold open some appointments each day for such matters. After hours or on a weekend/holiday, when SCS is not open and you feel it is important to speak to someone, you should call the Richmond Center at 515-433-0316. The Richmond Center is located at 806 7th St. in Ames.

General Guidelines

  • Familiarize yourself with the emergency action plan for your respective area so that you will know what to do in the event of an emergency.
  • Listen to and act on your intuition. It is better to be safe and risk a little embarrassment, than stay in an uncomfortable situation that may be unsafe.
  • If you leave your office or lab, you should always lock the door.
  • Never leave your personal property (purse, wallet, keys, briefcase, backpack, etc.) in an open area or unlocked cabinet that makes it an easy target for theft.
  • If you work alone before or after normal business hours, keep the door locked.

ISU Alert System

To sign up for emergency notification, log in to AccessPlus. Under A+ Home tab, click the ISU Alert link.