This month, we’re trying something new: a quick, skimmable overview of public safety tips, partner updates, and more.
To see previous editions of The Public Safety Newsletter, go to the Police and Public Safety website.
Public Safety, Simplified:
Three Things to Know Before You Go
NO. 1: PUBLIC SAFETY SURVEY
Take our 2026 Public Safety survey for your chance to win a Yeti Tundra 35 hard cooler (valued at $300). The anonymous survey closes May 31, so take the survey now!
NO. 2: PREVENT THEFT AT UMB
Did you know e-scooters and e-bikes can be a target for theft? Sign up for UMB Parking and Transportation's bike cage or bike room. Your peace of mind is worth $25 (or less)!
Wallets, phones, tablets, and other valuables can also “walk away.” Take the time to secure valuables inside a locked drawer, office, or bag that you take with you. Never leave valuables sitting out unattended.
NO. 3: SAVE THE DATE FOR NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
Our free community-building event is coming up Tuesday, Aug. 4. It will be here before you know it! Stop by the BioPark from 5 to 8 p.m. for free food, dancing, community resources, and much more.
More to Know:
Public Safety Tips, Updates, and Resources
OFFICE OF THE FIRE MARSHAL
Spring Fire Drills
Fire drills help our community prepare for emergencies before they happen. This spring, we evacuated 2,082 UMB employees and students in an average of just five minutes per building. Great job!
The Office of the Fire Marshal is an important part of UMB Public Safety. Contact UMB’s fire marshal directly at firemarshal@umaryland.edu.
UMB PUBLIC SAFETY BY THE NUMBERS: APRIL
We provide thousands of valuable services and resources to our communities, including:
- Average time from Safe Ride request to pickup: 7 minutes, 40 seconds
- Safe Rides given: 2,528
- Building checks: 2,733
- Local business checks: 160
- Garage checks: 716
Partner Updates
OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Emergency Preparedness Exercise
On Tuesday, May 26 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., UMB employees, actors, and evaluators will be practicing our emergency preparedness procedures during a full-scale exercise at the SMC Campus Center and first floor of the School of Nursing. Training signs will be posted throughout the area. For questions, email emergencymanagement@umaryland.edu.
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY
Spring Cleaning: Housekeeping and Decluttering
Keeping work areas clean and organized supports safety and efficiency. Take time to clear out clutter, promptly dispose of waste, and return chemicals and equipment to their designated storage areas. Make sure aisles and emergency exits stay open and accessible, and clean up spills right away. As part of your routine “spring refresh,” look for expired materials, damaged containers, and items that no longer belong in the lab. A little decluttering goes a long way toward reducing hazards, preventing accidents, and creating a safer, more productive research environment for everyone.
Social Media and More Information
Follow UMB Police and Public Safety on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. You also can visit umaryland.edu/police to learn more about our department, services, officers, history, and much more.
Video Recap
See a video recap of this month’s newsletter in two minutes or less.