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Spelman College Public Safety

Public Safety Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get help in emergencies?

ON CAMPUS
From campus phones dial 4911
Use any of the campus Emergency Call Boxes
From any phone dial 404-525-6401

OFF CAMPUS
From any phone dial 911

2. How do I report a crime, suspicious person or activity?
From any phone dial 404-525-6401.

3. How will I know if there is an emergency on campus?
If you have enrolled in Spelman ALERT you will receive text and cell messages in addition to email messages to your Spelman email address.

An Outdoor Siren with a long single tone will sound to indicate severe weather.

If the outdoor siren emits Rapid yelps like a police siren this indicates the need to shelter in place (Secure and remain in the area you are until the all clear is signaled by Public Safety).

Activated fire alarms in any building signal the need to evacuate immediately.

4. If I am a victim or witness to a crime what services are available to me?
The following offices are prepared to assist victims and witnesses:

  • Student Counseling Services404-270-5293
  • Captain Chambliss, Public Safety Office: 404-525-6401
  • LiveSafe 24-Hour Crisis Line: 770-427-3390 (Sexual Violence)
If you are the victim of a sexual assault or are attempting to assist a sexual assault victim visit the Report an Incident page for more information.

5. How do I sign up for “SPELMAN ALERT” emergency notifications?
Go to Spelman ALERT and follow the Register Now instructions.

6. What can I do to enhance my safety?
Travel Safety Tips

  • Avoid traveling alone, there is safety in numbers
  • Don't park in isolated areas
  • Share your travel plans with friends and family
  • When walking-Consistently scan the environment, Don’t use headphones, Choose well lighted routes, Trust your instincts!
  • BE PREPARED FOR CAMPUS EMERGENCIES

Every member of the Spelman Community should take steps in advance to be prepared for emergencies on and off campus. In addition to being familiar with campus emergency procedures, taking the following steps and having available the items suggested below can greatly enhance your ability to remain safe and or assist others during an emergency.

Program the Spelman Public Safety Department’s phone number, 404-525-6401 into your cell phone so you can call them quickly in case of emergency.

Be sure your roommates and/or close friends know how to contact your parents or other emergency contacts.

Be sure your parents know how to contact your roommates and/or close friends in case of emergencies.

Have an ICE entry in your cell phone (In Case of Emergency) so that police/fire/EMS can contact your emergency contact if you cannot speak.

Know more than one way to get out of every building where you live or have classes. If one exit is blocked, be able to get out of the building using a different exit.

Know where to shelter at home and at school in case of severe weather such as a tornado.

For a severe weather shelter area you should avoid: windows and areas where there might be flying glass, exterior walls, rooms with high ceilings such as auditoriums.  You should try to get to one of the lowest levels in the building.

When you go out at night have a plan on how you will get home. Have friends you can call to pick you up if you get stuck at a party or location where you feel uncomfortable.

Be sure your roommates/friends know where you are going and the people you will be with.

Know how to get to the Spelman Student Health Center if you get sick. Plan to get a flu shot during the fall semester. To decrease your chances of getting the flu, wash your hands regularly with alcohol-based soap and cough into your sleeve, not your hands.

Know the housing staff for your residence hall, including Resident Assistants and Professional Staff.

Have an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, a radio (and fresh batteries), nonperishable food, a first aid kit and other items.

7. What shuttle services are available?
Shuttle On Request:  Sun - Thurs 6 pm - 12 am
Shopping Cart Shuttle:  Sun 2pm - 4 pm
Brawley Bonce:  Sun - Thurs 5 pm - 12:30 pm

8. Where do I register for a parking permit?
AAA Parking Office – 1st level West Parking Deck (404) 270-5431

9. How can I find out about Public Safety programs and services?
Visit our office on the 1st level of the West Parking Deck

10. How do I request Public Safety support for an activity or event?
Contact Deputy Chief Toni Shavers at (404) 525-6401.

11. How do I communicate a concern or complaint?
Come to the Public Safety office and file a written complaint and/or email the Director of Emergency Preparedness, Steve Bowser:  sbowser@spelman.edu.

12. Will Public Safety assist me with emergency automobile repairs?
We do not provide any emergency repair services. We will provide you with a safe place to call and wait for professional automotive assistance.

13. What should I have in my personal emergency kit?
Have an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, a radio (and fresh batteries), nonperishable food and drink, a first aid kit, and an all purpose tool.

14. Where can I get MARTA bus and train information?
Schedules are available in the Public Safety office lobby.

Spelman ALERT
Sign up for Spelman Alert to receive emergency notifications.