Safety

5 things everyone should know about sexual assault

Megan M Rogers — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

5 things everyone should know about sexual assault Megan M Rogers Tue, 03/31/2026 - 00:00

Health and Wellness Services

Sexual assault is all too common and can have lasting impacts on individuals and communities. Here are five things everyone should know about sexual assault.

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Division of Public Safety begins rollout of locking devices for large classrooms

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:45:17 +0000

Division of Public Safety begins rollout of locking devices for large classrooms Megan M Rogers Fri, 03/27/2026 - 14:45

As part of ongoing campus security enhancements, the Division of Public Safety (DPS) Security Services team and Infrastructure & Resilience are installing classroom locking devices in 39 large classrooms and auditoriums across campus, beginning this month.

This spring, three classrooms—CHEM 140 and CHEM 142 in the chemistry building and MATH 100 in the mathematics building—have had the new technology activated for initial testing. Security Services and Infrastructure & Resilience will activate locking devices in 17 classrooms across 10 buildings throughout the spring and summer months. In total, the project will include 39 classrooms across 23 buildings.

Eric Jergenson, assistant vice chancellor for Security Services within DPS, said, “We are always looking for new ways to innovate and enhance campus security for our students, faculty and staff. This is an exciting new addition to our ability to respond to a threat and provides an additional layer of security when seconds count.”

These upgrades are supported in part by $3.4 million in state of Colorado controlled maintenance funding and technical assistance from the U.S. Department of Justice’s CRI-TAC program. After an assessment, the university began addressing security enhancements as part of a broader phased strategy to improve classroom safety campuswide. The assessment identified the 39 large classrooms as priorities for the new technology.

The funding also supported additional security upgrades, including improved door locks in more than 200 smaller classrooms across campus and exterior card readers where needed.

The buttons to be installed in the large classrooms are used in the event of an imminent threat (e.g., campus attacker), connect directly to dispatch, and lock the room until an officer arrives. When activated by an instructor during an imminent, life-threatening emergency, all closed classroom doors and exterior building doors lock. �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Police Department dispatch is automatically notified and officers respond immediately. Once secured, only law enforcement personnel can enter the locked classroom or building, though anyone can still exit.

Classroom locking device use

1. Lift the plastic cover. An internal alarm will sound.

2. Push the red button.

Once activated—classroom doors that are closed are now locked. Exterior doors of the building are also locked.

Note: Occupants may leave the room at any time, but only emergency personnel can enter the room. If you leave the room, you will not be able to reenter. Have a plan or escort before leaving the room.

This button should only be pushed for imminent life safety matters—if you are experiencing a health emergency, dial 911.

To learn how the button works, view the instructional video.

DPS will continue to reinforce �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s Run, Hide, Fight guidance so students, faculty and staff understand how to respond during an active threat.

Emergency alerts are always shared on the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Alerts website and the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe app.

Students, faculty and staff will soon notice new physical security enhancements in classrooms across campus.

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CUPD introduces Blue Envelope Program to support inclusive police interactions

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 20:25:26 +0000

CUPD introduces Blue Envelope Program to support inclusive police interactions Megan M Rogers Thu, 03/26/2026 - 14:25

The University of Colorado Police Department (CUPD) is introducing the Blue Envelope Program, a new voluntary tool designed to support clearer communication and understanding between police officers and community members who may need additional accommodations during an interaction.

The program aims to reduce the potential for miscommunication—particularly for individuals with invisible disabilities—by allowing officers to receive key information quickly and respectfully. The Blue Envelope provides a way for community members to share helpful details without the pressure of explaining their needs during a stressful or time-sensitive situation.

“This program is about awareness and trust,” said Joshua Ferguson, CUPD police commander. “The Blue Envelope helps our officers better understand the needs of the person they’re interacting with, while giving community members a simple way to communicate information that may support a calmer, clearer interaction.”

How it works

All CUPD staff have been trained on the Blue Envelope Program, including common accommodation needs and best practices for engaging with individuals who may communicate differently or experience heightened stress during police encounters. The training reflects CUPD’s ongoing commitment to thoughtful, professional interactions with students, staff, faculty, and visitors.

Participation in the program is entirely voluntary. Any community member may request a Blue Envelope at the CUPD Records Desk, located at 1050 Regent Drive, Boulder, CO 80301. No participant list is maintained, and no information is stored by CUPD.

The envelope is designed to be kept in a vehicle’s glove box and presented to an officer at the beginning of an interaction. Inside, participants may include copies of documents such as a driver’s license, registration or insurance. The exterior of the envelope also offers guidance for both the driver and the officer, including optional notes about communication preferences, medical or neurological considerations, and emergency contact information if the participant chooses to provide it.

Why Blue Envelope?

The Blue Envelope Program is also used by Boulder Police and the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office.

While CUPD believes the Blue Envelope Program can support clearer communication, the department emphasizes that all community members are still expected to follow the law. There may also be situations where officers must take appropriate safety measures to ensure everyone’s safety. As the program is new, first responders from other jurisdictions may not yet recognize the Blue Envelope.

“This is one way we are continuing to support thoughtful, professional police interactions,” Ashley Griffin, CUPD police chief said. “We want members of our community to feel informed and respected when they engage with CUPD.”

The Blue Envelope Program reflects CUPD’s broader commitment to inclusive public safety practices and to fostering understanding and trust across the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder community.

The University of Colorado Police Department is introducing the Blue Envelope Program, a new voluntary tool designed to support clearer communication and understanding between police officers and community members who may need additional accommodations during an interaction.

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@cuboulderpolice social media handle changing to @CUBoulderDPS

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:59:05 +0000

@cuboulderpolice social media handle changing to @CUBoulderDPS Megan M Rogers Fri, 03/13/2026 - 10:59

The Division of Public Safety today launched a process of transitioning its social media channels from �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Police Department (@cuboulderpolice) to �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Division of Public Safety (@CUBoulderDPS).

For more information about DPS and campus safety resources, visit @CUBoulderDPS on social media.

The change reflects DPS’s ongoing work to enhance communication, increase transparency and help the campus community better understand the full range of safety services available at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder. It also aligns to the university priority of aligning resources and infrastructure to our mission.

While CUPD has represented the university’s public safety presence on social media for over a decade, the evolution of public safety on campus through DPS drives this change. DPS is an integrated organization that includes CUPD, Public Safety Operations, Security Services, Threat Assessment, Flight Operations and a range of safety education and prevention programs.

“Students and employees interact with DPS in many ways beyond traditional policing,” said Marlon Lynch, vice chancellor for public safety. “This change allows us to communicate more clearly about who we are, what we do and how our various teams work together to support campus.”

The renaming process is taking place across Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and X. While the process for X, Facebook and YouTube are complete, the process for Instagram is still underway because of technical difficulties, with a resolution time potentially being lengthy.

Current followers will automatically remain connected, and the content will remain familiar—including timely information, safety education, community engagement and updates from across the division.

Importantly, emergency alerts will continue to appear on X and Facebook, along with other non-social media channels, ensuring the community maintains uninterrupted access to fast, critical information during urgent situations. The channel names will change, but its role in emergency communication will not.

DPS will introduce a short educational series on the newly named accounts to help the community learn more about its departments and programs. Topics will include how campus building access is managed, how emergency alerts are issued, what the threat assessment team does and what safety tools—such as the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe app—offers students and employees.

The goal of the transition is to make it easier for students, faculty and staff to understand the resources available to them and to strengthen awareness of the teams working behind the scenes every day within DPS.

The �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Police Department’s social media handle is transitioning to @CUBoulderDPS to better reflect the broader work of the Division of Public Safety and its integrated public safety model.

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Squad goals: 4 ways to look out for each other

Anonymous — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 13:46:15 +0000

Squad goals: 4 ways to look out for each other Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 03/09/2026 - 07:46

College life is full of unforgettable experiences. Whether you're celebrating something special, heading out to a concert or planning a night on the town, here's your guide to keeping friends safe and making the most of every adventure.

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Register your party, avoid potential drama and tickets

Anonymous — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:36:33 +0000

Want to host a party without worrying about noise complaints or expensive tickets? Register your party with Off-Campus Life and the Boulder Police Department.

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Don't forget about the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe app

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:48:21 +0000

Don't forget about the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe app Megan M Rogers Fri, 02/27/2026 - 13:48

This article was originally published on Oct. 8, 2025.

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder has launched a new mobile safety app, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe. The app is designed to centralize emergency alerts, safety tools and campus resources—making it easier for students, faculty and staff to find everything they need in one place. �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe is free for campus affiliates and available on both iOS and Android devices.

Once downloaded, campus community members can log in with their �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder credentials to receive emergency alerts, connect with dispatch for support, and access important safety resources. The app brings together tools that were previously spread across multiple websites and platforms, including links to Buff Bus, CUNightRide, parking and campus maps, mental health services and campus reporting options.

“Safety is a shared responsibility, and this app gives every member of our community the tools they need to stay informed, connected and supported—whether in an emergency or just going about their day,” said Marlon Lynch, vice chancellor for public safety.

One of the key new features is a built-in text function to communicate with dispatch in non-emergency situations. Another new feature is Virtual Walkhome, which enables you to allow �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Police dispatchers to monitor your location as you walk across campus. It’s designed to give you peace of mind if you’re walking alone—especially at night. The Friend Walk option, which the campus previously offered through the Guardian app, lets you share your location with a trusted friend or family member who can track your route until you arrive safely.

“The �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe app is one more tool that our students, faculty and staff now have access to that provides added safety and security to our campus,” said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. “Offering such a resource through the Division of Public Safety is critical to the university’s priority of building a more safe and resilient campus community.”

The app also includes quick access to CUPD, alerts social feeds (@CUBoulderAlerts and @CUBoulderPolice), and community safety partners like BoCoAlert and the Boulder Police Department.

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe will eventually replace the Guardian safety app, which will be phased out later this year. Help us get the word out—encourage your colleagues and students to download (iOS and Android) the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe app and start using it today.

How to download �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe is an app available for download by all students, faculty and staff. You must have an IdentiKey to access the app.

In the Apple App or Google Play store, search for and download the “�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe” app (quick links here: iOS and Android)
Open the app and log in using your IdentiKey credentials.
Make sure to enable push notifications. This will allow you to receive real-time emergency alerts through the app.
Add your phone number to your profile. This helps dispatch reach you faster in an emergency.
Use the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe app to access key safety features provided by the campus.

Launched in fall 2025, a free app for �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder students, faculty and staff offers emergency alerts, reporting tools and safety features in one place.

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What to do if you think someone is experiencing domestic violence or intimate partner abuse

Megan M Rogers — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:02:27 +0000

What to do if you think someone is experiencing domestic violence or intimate partner abuse Megan M Rogers Wed, 02/25/2026 - 07:02

Health and Wellness Services

Intimate partner abuse can take many forms, and recognizing the warning signs can help you support yourself or someone you care about.

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4 tips to prepare for extreme cold and snowy weather

Greg B Swenson — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:59:18 +0000

4 tips to prepare for extreme cold and snowy weather Greg B Swenson Thu, 01/22/2026 - 09:59

Boulder is expecting snow and freezing temperatures for the next few days. Whether you're staying in town or leaving for the weekend, here are some tips to be prepared.

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Test of alert system set for Jan. 20: What you need to know

Megan M Rogers — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:24:50 +0000

Test of alert system set for Jan. 20: What you need to know Megan M Rogers Tue, 01/13/2026 - 07:24

As part of the continuous assessment of emergency notification protocols and procedures, campus officials will test the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alerts system at approximately 12:15 p.m. (MST) on Tuesday, Jan. 20.

The annual testing, required by a federal law known as the Clery Act, involves checking the university’s systems for sending text messages, emails, social media posts, computer desktop alerts, push notifications to the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe app and website announcements. �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder conducts alert tests each semester to ensure the university stays current with best practices and maintains readiness to respond in case of emergencies.

Before the Jan. 20 test, students, faculty and staff members should check their Buff Portal or MyCUInfo accounts to make sure their contact information is up to date.

The information below outlines how to ensure you receive emergency notifications, the types of emergency notifications the campus provides, and how to stay informed about off-campus incidents.

How to receive �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alerts

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe app

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder also offers the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe app, a centralized place to receive campus alerts, access safety tools and learn how the university communicates during emergencies.

The app includes an in-app Safety Toolbox with alerts training videos and resources that explain �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s three levels of alerts: Emergency Alerts to keep you safe, Safety Alerts to help you be aware and �鶹��Ѱ��Advisories to keep you informed.

Community members are encouraged to visit the resources page to better understand alert types, what actions to take and how the university shares critical safety information. The �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe app is available for download on iOS and Android.

Students should consult the student alerts step-by-step guide. Faculty, staff and others with university email accounts (colorado.edu) can consult the employee alerts step-by-step guide. �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder employees can now opt to receive alerts in languages other than English. This service is also available to students.

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder partners who have cu.edu, cufund.org, cusys.edu, ucdenver.edu or cuanschutz.edu email domains must register and maintain their information on the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Rave webpage.

Affiliates who are not students, faculty or staff and do not have a �鶹��Ѱ��email domain can opt in to receive �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder text alerts by texting “cuaffiliate” to 67283. Registration expires one year after opting in and must be renewed annually. You may text “STOP” at any time to 67283 to be removed. As a member of �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Alerts, you will receive text notifications for campuswide events.

If there is a true ongoing campus threat to personal safety or a campus closure, a campuswide alert will be sent using one or more of the available communication methods. Text messaging is the preferred method, as it reaches the most individuals in the least amount of time.

After the scheduled test, if you believe you should have received an alert and did not, or if you need help signing up for the system, please email the Emergency Management team.

What are �鶹��Ѱ��Emergency Alerts?

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder issues emergency notifications, called �鶹��Ѱ��Emergency Alerts, to the campus community when there is a confirmed immediate threat to the safety of those on or near campus, particularly in areas with high student populations.

Such threats may include an active harmer, a natural disaster, severe weather or other time-sensitive life safety concerns. �鶹��Ѱ��Emergency Alerts can also be used in the event of campus closures or delayed starts.

Other notifications: �鶹��Ѱ��Safety Alerts and �鶹��Ѱ��Advisories

The university uses three levels of emergency notification.

In addition to �鶹��Ѱ��Emergency Alerts, campus officials issue �鶹��Ѱ��Safety Alerts (timely warnings) in accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act.

For non-immediate threats or incidents that may impact daily life on campus, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder issues �鶹��Ѱ��Advisories.

What about off-campus emergencies?

Campus community members who live off campus or spend significant time off campus may want to stay informed about nearby incidents and safety concerns. This article explains how the university responds to off-campus incidents in areas with high student populations and provides guidance on staying informed.

The city of Boulder and Boulder County distribute emergency alerts through a system called BOCOAlert (Everbridge). Community members with Boulder addresses are automatically enrolled. Those who live outside Boulder but want to receive alerts must sign up separately.

The university encourages all community members to follow @CUBoulderAlerts and @CUBoulderPolice on X (formerly Twitter). The �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Police Department is part of the Division of Public Safety.

The Boulder Police Department and Boulder Fire-Rescue also maintain social media channels for nonemergency information. Local news media can also be a reliable resource, particularly when misinformation is circulating.

For more information about emergency management at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, visit the Emergency Management website or email the team. Emergency Management also provides a list of common emergency definitions, which is linked on the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Alerts website.

Campus officials will conduct a �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alerts test, checking the university's systems for sending text messages, emails, social media posts, computer desktop alerts and website announcements in the event of emergencies. Learn more.

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