Panic Buttons

What is it
The purpose of the buttons are to allow individuals under duress to quickly and silently summon Public Safety for help in the event of specific emergency situations when it is not safe, practical or possible to use a telephone to dial Public Safety at (610) 330-4444 (on-campus) or 911.

This type of alarm will result in a heightened response, with lights and sirens, due to a raised likelihood of a criminal event in progress.

Therefore, activating these types of alarms in non-emergency situations is serious and will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct for follow-up. Outcomes may include fines, disciplinary probations, and suspension or expulsion.

 

When to use it

• In emergency situations when you are unable to dial (610) 330-4444 or 9-1-1 for law enforcement assistance
• During a robbery or hold-up in progress
• When you are physically threatened and it is not safe to call

 

How to use it
A telephone call for help is always preferable to a panic button, as it allows the dispatcher to determine the nature of the emergency.  To activate the panic button:

• Press and hold for 2 seconds to summon Public Safety.
• Call (610) 330-4444 when safe to do so.

 

When NOT to use it

• When you need fire or medical assistance
• To check to see how long it takes law enforcement officers to respond
• When someone has taken or damaged property
• To report a fight outside
• To report that a vehicle has been stolen
• Any other circumstance in which you are not in a life-threatening or emergency situation