Introduction
The USF Safe Team, an integral part of the University of South Florida’s commitment to campus safety, empowers the university community to actively contribute to a secure and welcoming environment. This dedicated group of professionals works tirelessly to prevent crime, respond to emergencies, and provide support and resources to students, faculty, and staff.
Mission Statement
The USF Safe Team’s mission is to:
- Enhance safety and security on campus
- Foster a culture of safety awareness and personal responsibility
- Respond effectively to emergencies
- Provide support and resources to the university community
- Collaborate with law enforcement and community partners
Services Provided
The USF Safe Team offers a comprehensive range of services to ensure the safety and well-being of the university community. These services include:
Emergency Response
- 24/7 emergency call center
- Rapid response to emergencies
- Medical assistance
- Fire and rescue services
Crime Prevention
- Patrolling campus grounds
- Identifying and addressing security risks
- Providing safety education and training
- Crime prevention programs
Support Services
- Victim advocacy and counseling
- Crisis intervention
- Safe walking escorts
- Lost and found services
Technology and Resources
- Campus surveillance cameras
- Emergency notification systems
- Safe Walk app
- Safety website and social media
Key Initiatives
The USF Safe Team continuously innovates and implements new initiatives to enhance campus safety. Some key initiatives include:
Campus Security Officer (CSO) Program
CSOs are highly trained and visible members of the Safe Team who patrol campus grounds and interact with the university community. They are responsible for:
- Detering crime
- Responding to emergencies
- Providing safety information and assistance
Safe Walk App
The Safe Walk app allows students, faculty, and staff to request a safe escort from campus security. This service provides peace of mind during late-night hours or when walking alone.
Mental Health Crisis Response Team (MHCRT)
The MHCRT is a multidisciplinary team that responds to mental health emergencies on campus. The team provides immediate support, assessment, and referral services to students in distress.
Statistics and Impact
The USF Safe Team’s efforts have made a significant impact on campus safety. According to the latest available data:
- Campus crime rates have decreased by 20% over the past five years.
- The university has been recognized as one of the safest campuses in the nation by several organizations.
- The Safe Team has assisted over 10,000 individuals in emergencies and provided over 500 safe escorts in the past year.
Funding and Support
The USF Safe Team is funded through a combination of university funds, grants, and donations. The team relies heavily on the support of the university community and external partners to ensure the continued provision of its essential services.
Get Involved
Members of the university community can help enhance campus safety by:
- Reporting any suspicious activity or crimes
- Participating in safety education programs
- Using the Safe Walk app or requesting a safe escort
- Supporting the Safe Team through donations or volunteering
Conclusion
The USF Safe Team is a vital part of the university community, working tirelessly to create a safe and secure environment for all. Through its comprehensive range of services, innovative initiatives, and dedicated professionals, the Safe Team empowers students, faculty, and staff to contribute to their own safety and the well-being of others. By partnering with the Safe Team, the university community can create a campus where everyone feels safe, respected, and supported.
Additional Information
FAQs
Q1. How do I contact the USF Safe Team in an emergency?
A1. Call 911 or the university police at 813-974-2628.
Q2. What is the Safe Walk app?
A2. The Safe Walk app is a mobile application that allows students, faculty, and staff to request a safe escort from campus security.
Q3. What is the Mental Health Crisis Response Team (MHCRT)?
A3. The MHCRT is a multidisciplinary team that responds to mental health emergencies on campus.
Q4. How can I report a crime or suspicious activity?
A4. You can report a crime or suspicious activity by calling the university police at 813-974-2628 or by submitting a report online.
Tables
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Campus crime rate decrease over the past five years | 20% |
| Number of students, faculty, and staff assisted in emergencies in the past year | 10,000 |
| Number of safe escorts provided in the past year | 500 |
| Number of calls received by the emergency call center in the past year | 50,000 |
Acknowledgements
The USF Safe Team gratefully acknowledges the support of the following organizations:
- University of South Florida Police Department
- Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
- Tampa Police Department
- Mental Health Association of Tampa Bay
- Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners
- City of Tampa