To our University community:
I am so excited to see everyone returning to campus. As Chief of the West Virginia University Police Department (UPD), I always look forward to this time of the year as we introduce new students to our University and welcome back existing Mountaineers – students and employees alike.
As we look ahead to another academic year, please know that UPD remains committed to providing a safe environment for all to live, learn and work. Your safety is our top priority. While we work to protect you, there are also steps you can proactively take to protect yourself, like locking up your residence every time you leave, storing valuable items out of plain sight and being aware of your surroundings.
With that, I want to share important safety information to keep in mind as you explore our campus and the surrounding Morgantown area.
The West Virginia Campus Self-Defense Act (commonly referred to as “Campus Carry”) took effect on July 1 for all higher education institutions in West Virginia. Passed by the West Virginia Legislature in 2023, the Act allows a person to carry a concealed pistol or revolver on the grounds of a higher education institution, with some exceptions, if that person has a current and valid license to carry a concealed deadly weapon. Over the past year, UPD has been heavily and actively involved in the University’s requirement to follow the law while ensuring the safety and well-being of our campus communities. To learn more about how Campus Carry affects our campus, visit the Campus Carry website.
If you see something suspicious, please say something. Report suspicious activity by dialing 911 or calling University Police at 304-293-3136. Another communication option is the LiveSafe app which allows you to communicate directly and discreetly with UPD through text, photo, video and audio, among several other features.
If incidents occur on or near campus, the University notifies our campus community by sending information through its three-tiered emergency messaging system – the WVU Alert system. Students are automatically registered to receive emails but should add their phone number to their account to receive text notifications as well.
You can learn more about what is considered “on campus” and “off campus” through our Clery Act geography maps. University Police’s jurisdiction typically only covers campus property and public property immediately adjacent to campus. Incidents that occur off campus, no matter how close they may be to campus, are routinely handled by the Morgantown Police Department or other law enforcement agencies. While we do our best to communicate about off-campus incidents when we are notified by other law enforcement agencies, these incidents – and the communication of them – are often outside of UPD’s control.
It’s also important to remain vigilant while you explore areas off campus. The City of Morgantown is home to many people outside of our University community. Based on feedback we received from the survey UPD conducted in January, we especially encourage you to stay aware of your surroundings in the Downtown Morgantown area, including areas on and around High Street. When possible, travel with a friend and put your phone away so you can stay alert.
For those who choose to participate in activities involving alcohol, always exercise caution. Stick with one type of alcohol to better moderate how much alcohol you consume, pace drinks to one or fewer per hour and alternate alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages. You should also always have an eye on your drink – never set it down or give it to someone else to hold. Utilize the buddy system when out and about to help prevent someone from ending up in an unsafe situation, and have a plan for your group to get home safely whether it’s a ride-sharing app, designated driver, taxi or walking.
Finally, always call for medical assistance when someone is in danger of drug or alcohol overdose. Under WVU’s medical amnesty policy, you may be safe from prosecution and may not face charges under the Campus Student Code if you seek medical assistance in an emergency. Bottom line – always seek help to save a life.
The University Police team works diligently to protect our campus community and keep you safe. With such a large campus and many fun activities planned for Welcome Week and beyond, please remember these safety tips to make sure your WVU experience is a safe one.
For more University Police information, visit our website at police.wvu.edu. If you have any questions, thoughts or concerns, please don’t hesitate to talk to our officers on campus or submit your feedback through our contact form found on our website.
I look forward to seeing you around campus this year.
Let’s go!
– Chief Sherry St. Clair, West Virginia University Police Department