Risk Reduction

Rape and other forms of sexual assault are NEVER the victim's fault. Framingham State is committed to prevention efforts that stop problematic behaviors by would-be-offenders before an assault occurs. Unfortunately, research shows that there may be a small portion of the population who are immune to prevention messaging and may still make a conscious decision to commit a violent crime. Therefore, we are also committed to providing education that will allow individuals to promote an atmosphere of greater safety for themselves and others. Though we do not always know it, we are constantly assessing risk and using risk reduction techniques in many facets of our lives. Being aware of your environment and knowing how to identify problematic behavior may, but will not always, reduce your personal risk.

Reduce Risk of Committing an Assault

• Understand what it means to request and receive consent.
• Remember that sexual assault is a crime. It is never acceptable to force sexual activity. Without consent, sexual activity is considered criminal behavior. 
• Resist peer pressure from friends to behave in ways that make you feel uncomfortable.
• Alcohol and drugs can alter your thinking and behavior. You are responsible for the consequences of your behavior.

Keep in Mind

• Most assaults occur from a known assailant.
• Trust your instincts, if you feel uncomfortable, get out of the situation.
• Be mindful that alcohol and drugs can affect your judgment and the judgment of people you trust.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Stay alert.
• Walk in groups if possible.
• Watch out for each other. Go to social events with friends and keep track of each other.
• Get involved. If you see someone in trouble, don't be afraid to intervene or call for help.

General Safety

Safety Bulletins Should Be Taken Seriously
In the event of a major incident of violent crime on the campus or in the neighboring community, safety bulletins will be posted by the Framingham State University Police Department in the Safety Bulletin Posting Cases, located near the main entrances to all campus buildings. You may also view them on the Campus Police website.

CODE BLUE ® Emergency Phones

CODE BLUE ® emergency phones have been placed on all academic buildings, foyer of each residence hall, and the walkway behind Hemenway Hall. In addition, they are located in the following parking lots: Maynard, Maple, Athletic Field, Union Avenue, Upper and Lower Normal Hill, Linsley Lot and the Bement Shuttle Stop. These phones ring directly into the Framingham State University Police Department. When using these phones, please remain calm and give clear details of the situation you are reporting.
To operate an emergency phone, simply press the button. The Framingham State University Police Department will respond immediately. Even if you cannot speak,
they will know your location and a cruiser will arrive on the scene very quickly. Audio contact with the Police Department will remain activated throughout the emergency.

Police Escort

The Framingham State University Police Department requests that students ask for escorts only when absolutely necessary and when no other options are available. Escorts are provided for safety reasons only. Escorts will be given from 2:00 a.m. until dawn. Students should plan their schedules accordingly as there are no escorts given during daylight hours.

Shuttle Bus Service

The Student Transportation Center provides shuttle bus service to/from parking lots. Please check posted signs and the Student Transportation Center website for schedules and additional information. For more information, you may call the Student Transportation Center dispatch line at 508-215-5920.

We encourage students to walk in groups from parking lots or between residence halls when not using the shuttle bus service. The shuttle bus stop is located at the Bement parking lot. The bus route usually takes about 20 minutes for the entire circuit. Students may contact the Student Transportation Center at 508-215-5920 for immediate shuttle information.

Residence Hall Security and Visitors

Access to the residence halls is through designated main entrance doors only. Students are provided with a key access card coded for their hall only and an individual room key. Students should never share or give their key access card or room key to any other person. If a key access card or room key is lost, it should be immediately reported to the ID Office and Residence Life respectively.
Each residence hall desk is located in the lobby and is staffed by attendants who monitor people entering and leaving the building, including checking key access cards and/or IDs of all individuals entering the hall. Security cameras have been placed in each residence hall lobby for added security. Desks are staffed 24 hours per day, 7 days per week whenever students are living in the buildings. All visitors and guests of resident students are required to sign in and leave valid photo identification at the desk. Guests will be allowed in the building only when the sponsoring resident is present to accompany them to his or her room. Once a guest has been signed in, it is the responsibility of the resident to escort that guest at all times while he/she is in the building. Students will be held directly responsible for the actions of their guests.

Off-Campus Housing

Framingham State University does not own, nor does it sponsor or recommend, any off-campus housing. Students seeking off-campus housing are cautioned to check thoroughly with local police and the landlord of any rental property about the incidence of crime in the area. It is also important to check for adequate safety devices in the building or apartment prior to signing any lease agreement.