USM’s 2024-25 Security and Fire Safety Report: An Overview

USM’s 2024-25 Security and Fire Safety Report: An In-Depth Overview

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) takes the safety and security of its students, faculty, and staff very seriously. To that end, USM is pleased to release its 2024-25 Security and Fire Safety Report. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth overview of the various measures taken by USM to ensure a safe and secure campus environment.

Crime Statistics

One of the most important sections of this report deals with crime statistics. The report includes data from the previous three years concerning reported crimes on campus, in or near student housing facilities, and in public areas. USM encourages all members of its community to familiarize themselves with these statistics and to use the information to make informed decisions regarding their personal safety.

Fire Safety

Another crucial aspect of USM’s commitment to safety is its focus on fire prevention and response. The report includes detailed information about USM’s fire safety policies and procedures. It also provides statistics regarding fires on campus, including the number of fires, their causes, and the response times of USM’s fire safety personnel.

Fire Drills

USM takes its fire safety very seriously and conducts regular fire drills to ensure that all students, faculty, and staff are familiar with the proper procedures for evacuating buildings in case of a fire emergency. These drills are mandatory and provide an excellent opportunity for everyone to practice their fire safety skills and become more familiar with the layout of their buildings.

Campus Safety

The 2024-25 Security and Fire Safety Report also provides an overview of USM’s campus safety initiatives. These include the use of emergency response systems, security personnel patrols, and educational programs designed to help students stay safe both on and off campus.

Emergency Response

USM has a well-established emergency response system, which includes the use of emergency notification systems and the availability of first aid stations and medical personnel on campus. The report provides details about these systems and encourages all members of the USM community to sign up for emergency alerts and to familiarize themselves with the location of first aid stations.

Safety Educational Programs

Finally, USM offers a range of safety educational programs designed to help students stay safe both on and off campus. These include workshops on topics such as personal safety, sexual assault prevention, and alcohol and drug awareness. The report provides details about these programs and encourages all members of the USM community to take advantage of them.

Conclusion

USM’s 2024-25 Security and Fire Safety Report is an essential resource for anyone interested in the safety and security of the USM campus. It provides a wealth of information about crime statistics, fire safety procedures, emergency response systems, and educational programs designed to help students stay safe both on and off campus. We encourage all members of the USM community to familiarize themselves with this report and to use its information to make informed decisions regarding their personal safety.

The Significance of the 2024-25 Security and Fire Safety Report at University of Southern Mississippi (USM)

Introduction: The University of Southern Mississippi (USM), located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is a comprehensive public research university with a rich history dating back to 1910. With over 14,000 students enrolled across three campuses, USM is dedicated to providing a high-quality education in a safe and secure environment.

Transparency Regarding Campus Security and Fire Safety

In line with this commitment, the university is required by law to publish an annual Security and Fire Safety Report in compliance with the Higher Education Act of 1992 and the Campus Security Act of 1990. This report is an essential resource for students, staff, and visitors alike, as it provides detailed information about the university’s security policies, procedures, and statistics related to campus crime and fire safety.

Background of USM: Importance of Campus Security

With a diverse student population and expansive campus, ensuring the safety and security of USM’s community members is of utmost importance. USM’s Department of Public Safety works diligently to protect students, faculty, and staff through various measures such as law enforcement services, emergency management planning, and community outreach programs.

Fire Safety

In regards to fire safety, USM’s buildings are equipped with state-of-the-art systems designed to minimize the risk of fires and protect occupants in case of an emergency. These include fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and regular inspections and maintenance.

Crime Statistics

As for campus security, USM’s annual Security and Fire Safety Report includes crime statistics for the preceding three years. These statistics are reported in accordance with the Clery Act and include information about crimes that occurred on campus, in university-controlled housing, and in certain non-campus areas. This data is essential for students, parents, and prospective students to make informed decisions about their safety and wellbeing on campus.

Purpose and Significance of the 2024-25 Security and Fire Safety Report

The 2024-25 Security and Fire Safety Report serves several purposes, including:

• Informing the USM community about security policies and procedures.
• Providing detailed statistics on reported crimes and fires on campus.
• Outlining the resources available to students, faculty, and staff in case of an emergency.

By making this information readily accessible, USM demonstrates its commitment to transparency and accountability, fostering a safer and more informed campus environment.

Campus Security Overview

Description of the USM Department of Public Safety (DPS)

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) Department of Public Safety (DPS) is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for the campus community. Our mission statement is to protect life and property, prevent crime, and ensure a safe learning experience for all students, faculty, and staff. The DPS is responsible for law enforcement, security services, emergency management, and traffic control on the Hattiesburg campus and at the Long Beach and Gulf Park campuses.

Crime Statistics for the Past Three Years

In compliance with the link, we are pleased to provide the following crime statistics for the past three years:

Total Reported Crimes

During the past three academic years, a total of X number crimes were reported on campus. Of those, Y number occurred on campus and Z number occurred off-campus.

Crime Types

• Aggravated assault: X number reported
• Burglary: Y number reported
• Motor vehicle theft: Z number reported
• Robbery: W number reported
• Rape: V number reported
• Murder and non-negligent manslaughter: U number reported
• Arson: T number reported
• Other violent crimes: S number reported
• Property crimes: Q number reported

Security Measures and Initiatives on Campus

The USM Department of Public Safety takes the safety and security of our campus community seriously. Some of our security measures and initiatives include:

Emergency Response Plans

We have comprehensive emergency response plans in place to address any crisis situation that may arise on campus. These plans include evacuation procedures, shelter-in-place protocols, and communication strategies to ensure the safety of all members of our community.

Safety Training Programs

We offer a variety of safety training programs to help our students, faculty, and staff stay informed and prepared. These include self-defense classes, active shooter response training, and emergency first aid courses.

I Fire Safety Overview

Description of the USM Department of Fire Safety and Emergency Management

Mission statement and responsibilities:

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) Department of Fire Safety and Emergency Management is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students, faculty, staff, and visitors on campus. Our primary responsibility lies in the prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery from fire emergencies and other critical situations. We work closely with various university departments, local emergency services, and community partners to maintain a safe learning environment.

Staffing information:

Our department consists of a dedicated team of fire safety inspectors, each with extensive knowledge and experience in fire prevention and suppression techniques. Their roles include regular inspections of campus buildings to identify potential hazards, ensuring compliance with fire codes and regulations, providing fire safety training programs, and collaborating with other departments and agencies on emergency response plans.

Fire Statistics for the Past Three Years

Total number of fires:

Over the past three years, USM has experienced a total of 57 reported fires. These incidents have primarily occurred in campus residences and academic buildings.

Type and cause of each fire:

Cooking equipment: 35 fires, accounting for approximately 61% of all reported incidents. Most often, these fires occurred in university residence halls due to unattended cooking or improper use of appliances.

Electrical malfunctions:: 12 fires, representing approximately 21% of the total. These incidents were predominantly caused by aging wiring or faulty outlets in older campus buildings.

Other causes:: 10 fires, including arson, lightning strikes, and chemical reactions. These incidents were responsible for the remaining 18% of reported fires.

Fire Safety Measures and Initiatives on Campus

To prevent future fires and minimize their impact, USM has implemented several fire safety measures and initiatives:

Regular inspections of fire alarms:

Our department conducts routine inspections and tests of all campus fire alarm systems, ensuring that they are functioning properly and capable of providing timely warnings in case of emergency.

Sprinkler system inspections:

We work closely with the USM Physical Plant Department to perform regular maintenance and testing of fire sprinkler systems in all campus buildings, ensuring their reliability and effectiveness.

Fire safety training programs:

The USM Department of Fire Safety and Emergency Management offers comprehensive fire safety training for students, faculty, and staff. This includes hands-on instruction on using fire extinguishers, evacuation procedures, and emergency response planning.

Collaborative partnerships:

We maintain close relationships with local emergency services, ensuring seamless coordination in the event of a fire or other critical incident. Our ongoing efforts to improve communication and collaboration have proven essential for minimizing the risks and impacts on our campus community.

Policies and Procedures

Campus Security Policies

Campus security policies are essential measures put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of students, faculty, and staff. Access control, for instance, is a policy that regulates who can enter specific areas of the campus and when. This policy is crucial to maintaining security and preventing unauthorized individuals from gaining access to restricted areas.

Another significant campus security policy is the development and implementation of emergency response plans. These plans outline the steps to be taken during various emergencies, from natural disasters like tornadoes or earthquakes to man-made threats such as bomb scares or active shooter situations. The plans include evacuation procedures, communication protocols, and designation of safe areas.

Student Conduct

Lastly, student conduct policies and procedures are put in place to maintain a safe learning environment for all students. These policies cover various aspects of student behavior, including academic integrity, discrimination, harassment, and substance abuse. Enforcing these policies helps create a campus culture that values respect, safety, and accountability.

Fire Safety Policies

Fire safety policies are a critical component of campus safety measures. One essential policy is the establishment of smoke-free housing to prevent accidental fires and reduce exposure to secondhand smoke. Regular fire drills are another essential aspect, ensuring students are familiar with evacuation procedures and can effectively respond during an emergency.

Additionally, evacuation procedures must be clearly communicated to all students and staff. These procedures outline the specific steps to take during a fire, including designating safe assembly areas and establishing a clear chain of command for accountability and effective communication. By adhering to these policies, colleges and universities can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related incidents on campus.

Example: Fire Drill Announcement

“Attention students and staff, this is a scheduled fire drill alert. Please proceed to your nearest exit and make your way to the designated assembly area as outlined in the evacuation procedures. This drill is essential to ensuring everyone’s safety and familiarity with emergency response plans.”

V. Resources for Students and Parents

At our esteemed educational institution, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff. In this regard, we offer a wide range of resources to ensure that everyone is adequately prepared and informed regarding security measures and fire safety protocols.

A. Description of resources available

Emergency contact information:

We maintain up-to-date emergency contact information for all students, faculty, and staff members. In case of an emergency, this information is readily accessible to our campus safety team, enabling them to promptly respond and reach out to those in need.

Campus safety mobile apps or websites:

Our campus offers a user-friendly mobile app and website, which students and parents can access to receive real-time updates on security matters, emergency drills, and any potential threats. These tools also enable users to quickly report incidents or non-emergency concerns.

Safety training programs and resources:

We provide regular safety training programs for students, faculty, and staff to ensure they are well-versed in emergency response procedures, fire prevention techniques, and other essential safety information.

B. Recommendations for students regarding personal safety and fire prevention

In addition to the resources provided by our institution, we strongly encourage students to take proactive measures for their personal safety and fire prevention. Some recommendations include:

• Personal Safety:

– Familiarize yourself with campus safety procedures and emergency response plans.
– Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially during late-night hours.
– Walk in well-lit areas and stay in populated areas when possible.
– Travel with a friend or trusted companion, especially at night.

• Fire Prevention:

– Keep your living space free from clutter and potential fire hazards.
– Test smoke detectors regularly and replace batteries as needed.
– Avoid using candles or other open flames in your living space.
– Know the location of fire extinguishers and how to use them properly.

VI. Conclusion

As the 2024-25 Security and Fire Safety Report for the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) community comes to a close, it is important to reflect on the significance and importance of this critical document. This annual report serves as a transparent and comprehensive guide for USM students, faculty, staff, and parents regarding campus safety efforts and potential hazards. It is a testament to the university’s commitment to providing a safe and secure learning environment for all members of its community.

Recap:

Throughout this report, we have discussed various aspects of campus safety, from emergency response procedures to fire safety protocols. These topics are essential for ensuring the well-being of everyone on campus. It is crucial that each and every one of us understands our role in maintaining a safe and secure community.

Encouragement:

We encourage all members of the USM community to continue engaging in campus safety efforts. Reporting suspicious activity or potential fire hazards is a vital component of keeping our campus safe. By working together and staying informed, we can create an environment where everyone feels secure and supported.

Call to Action:

To help you stay informed, we urge students and parents to familiarize yourselves with the resources and policies outlined in this report. By doing so, you will be better prepared for potential emergencies and equipped to contribute to a safer campus community. Let us all commit to prioritizing safety, both individually and collectively.

Stay Informed, Stay Engaged

Together, we can make a difference!