Safety Tips

On-campus Safety and Security Measures

In addition to our already-established emergency procedures, there are many safety and security measures in place.

• Our officers patrol the grounds in marked police cruisers, on foot, and on bicycles. Approach us at any time.
• Most student residence halls and a number of academic buildings use an electronic ID access system.
• Security cameras monitor entrances to most campus buildings, as well as the new soccer field and track.
• Emergency telephones are installed throughout the campus. They are marked by blue lights on the residence halls, track, Harold C. Smith Learning Commons, Portsmouth Street Warehouse, and the Brennan Center.
• The College conducts crime prevention and awareness programs in the residence halls.

Safety Escorts

Safety escorts are available anywhere on the campus 24 hours a day by calling the Department of Public Safety at (413) 748-3516.

Shuttle Service

During the academic school year, the College offers an on campus shuttle service Friday and Saturday evenings.  Known to the campus community as the Pride Ride, this shuttle operates on a fixed route about the main campus.  Learn more.

Campus Safety Tips

Be alert and use common sense to stay safe. When you go out, keep these tips in mind.

• Be aware of your surroundings when using earbuds, headphones, and anything else that might impair your hearing.
• Do not hesitate to report suspicious activity or suspicious individuals.
• Do not attempt to enter into conversation with a suspicious individual.
• Learn the best routes between your residence hall and your classes and activities. Take the safest route, not the fastest route.
• Travel in groups of two or more at night.
• Walk in well-lit, heavily traveled areas.
• Share your class schedule with friends and family, effectively creating a buddy system.
• When you go out, let someone know where you are going and when you plan to be back.
• Know where the emergency telephones are located.
• Use the escort or shuttle service. Call (413) 748-3516 to arrange for a walking escort or a shuttle ride. Wait in a safe place for the escort or ride.
• Wherever you are, stay alert to your surroundings and the actions of people around you.
• Follow your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, change directions, go to an emergency phone or into a public building, or call us at (413) 748-5555.
• Make sure that you have the Rave Guardian app downloaded on your phone.

Residence Hall Safety Tips

• Never lend out your room key or ID.
• Report any suspicious persons or activity immediately.
• Do not leave valuables in the open, and do not carry a lot of cash.
• Always lock your room door, even if you only leave for a few minutes.
• Never prop exterior doors, or let strangers in. This is your home.

Classroom, Lab, and Office Safety Tips

• Avoid working or studying alone in a building late at night. If you must, notify the police where you are, and when you leave. Use the escort service.
• Keep personal items such as coats, purses, or laptops in a locked cabinet or drawer.
• Don't leave valuables unattended.
• Never prop doors.
• Report any suspicious persons or activity immediately.

Street and Parking Lot Safety Tips

• Park in a well-lit lot.
• Do not leave valuables in plain view in your car.
• Walk in groups after dark, or use the escort service.
• Use your alarm system.
• Lock your doors, and keep your windows rolled up.
• Always have your keys ready and in hand. Immediately lock your doors.
• Always be aware of your surroundings.
• Report any suspicious persons or activity immediately.