As the Fall 2026 Semester begins at The University of Alabama, campus will quickly fill with the energy of students returning to class, faculty preparing for a new academic year, and staff supporting the University’s daily operations. With thousands of people moving across campus each day, now is the perfect time to refresh your safety habits and familiarize yourself with the resources available to help keep our community safe.
Safety isn’t just the responsibility of first responders. It is something we all contribute to through awareness, preparation and looking out for one another. Whether this is your first semester at UA or your twentieth, a few simple precautions can make a significant difference.
Stay aware, stay focused
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself is to remain aware of your surroundings. As you walk across campus, enter buildings, or travel to and from parking areas, stay alert and limit distractions. Looking down at your phone or wearing earbuds at a high volume can make it difficult to notice approaching vehicles, cyclists, scooters or potential hazards.
Faculty and staff should practice the same level of awareness while moving between offices, classrooms and parking lots. If something appears unusual or concerning, trust your instincts and report it.
Be smart around campus traffic
The start of a semester brings increased vehicle, pedestrian, bicycle and scooter traffic. Before stepping into a crosswalk, put your phone away, remove distractions and make sure drivers have stopped before crossing. Always obey pedestrian signals and avoid crossing against the light.
Those using bicycles, e-bikes, scooters and other micromobility vehicles must register those vehicles with UA Parking. All micromobility vehicles should follow the same rules of the road as motorists, use bike lanes whenever available and remain courteous to pedestrians. Shared responsibility helps keep everyone moving safely across campus.
Protect your property
While UA is a safe campus, thefts often occur when belongings are left unattended or unsecured. Keep backpacks, laptops, phones and other valuables with you or stored securely. Never leave personal items unattended in classrooms, libraries, study spaces or common areas.
Whether living in a residence hall, apartment or off-campus house, students should make a habit of always locking their doors, even if stepping away for only a few minutes. Faculty and staff should secure offices when they are unoccupied. Avoid leaving valuables visible in vehicles. A locked door remains one of the simplest and most effective crime prevention tools available.
Know your safety resources
Being prepared before an emergency occurs can make all the difference. The UA Safety app provides access to emergency resources, weather information, safety guidance, campus maps and UA Alerts. The app also offers one-touch access to emergency contacts and directions to buildings and shelter locations.
Students, faculty and staff should also ensure that their contact information is current in myBama so they can receive UA Alerts and other emergency notifications when needed.
More than 200 emergency blue phones are located throughout campus and parking facilities, providing direct access to University police.
Be ready for the unexpected
Take time early in the semester to become familiar with the buildings you frequent most. Know where exits are located, identify nearby shelter areas and review emergency procedures for your workplace, classroom or residence hall.
Preparedness is not just for severe weather or major incidents. It helps create confidence and ensures faster decision-making during any emergency.
See something? Say something.
Every member of the UA community plays a role in maintaining a safe campus environment. If you observe suspicious behavior, a safety concern or something that simply doesn’t seem right, report it to UAPD at 205-348-5454.
UA also offers Text UAct, a confidential reporting resource that allows individuals to anonymously report concerns involving student or student organization misconduct.
A shared commitment
The beginning of a new semester is an exciting time filled with opportunities, new experiences and fresh goals. By staying alert, securing your belongings, utilizing campus resources and looking out for one another, we can all help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors to UA.
Let’s make safety part of our daily routine and work together to ensure a successful semester for everyone.
Safety reminder: UA Alert system test
Weather permitting, the University will test its emergency notification systems, including UA Alerts, the public address system and digital signage Wednesday, Aug. 5, at 11:55 a.m.