Homecoming Safety Guidance

Here are some key actions we can all take to promote safety and uphold our commitment to an inclusive, equitable, and respectful campus during Homecoming: 

Alumni, Students, Employees, and Guests 

• Stay connected by establishing a safety plan and sharing your location with trusted friends or family. Check in before and after leaving campus so others know your whereabouts and can reach you in an emergency. It is a great idea to travel and return in groups.
• Be aware of enhanced law enforcement in Washington, D.C. As you are no doubt aware, law enforcement in the District of Columbia has been intensified. Please recognize that, in addition to the Metropolitan Police Department, numerous federal law enforcement agencies have investigative and arrest authority in the city. Please exercise situational awareness and know your rights.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to those around you in events, social settings, and when moving about the campus, surrounding streets, and city, remaining alert for situations that may become unsafe.
• Share rides smartly. If using a rideshare like Uber or Lyft, ensure that you are getting into the correct vehicle. Make sure that your driver says your name before entering the vehicle.
• Exercise common sense. Don’t accept rides, drugs, or drinks from strangers, and avoid conflicts and confrontations that could escalate out of control.
• Mind your physical space. Unwanted touching is always unacceptable and not to be tolerated. Be mindful of others' personal space and body language. Avoid any behavior that could be interpreted as sexual harassment, assault, or inappropriate, and remember that each individual's comfort levels vary.
• Protect your physical health. “Going hard” is a signature of Homecoming, but it is important to hydrate, eat well, and rest. Don’t ignore your physical limitations, and always identify first aid stations in case you need assistance.
• Report emergencies and suspicious activity or individuals to HUDPS at (202) 806-1100 or call 911. Program these numbers into your cell phone. 
• Download the Bison SAFE App to receive emergency alerts, safety updates, and resources directly on your phone. 

• Consent is essential. Ensure that all interactions, whether social or intimate, are based on clear, mutual, and ongoing consent. Understand that consent must be freely given, can be revoked at any time, and cannot be given if someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Respect boundaries — both verbal and non­verbal. This also helps minimize the risk of behaviors that could lead to Title IX policy violations, which address sexual misconduct, sexual harassment, and gender-based discrimination.
• Leverage your resources. If you feel that you have been assaulted or harassed, please reach out to campus authorities immediately. Staff are available to help in offices, including but not limited to the Title IX Office, Office of Interpersonal Violence Prevention, Counseling Services, Department of Public Safety, and Office of Student Conduct. 
• Look out for each other. If you encounter a situation you believe poses a safety risk to yourself or others, report it to DPS as soon as possible. If you witness behavior that violates our Title IX policy, report it to the Title IX Office immediately. You can do so confidentially, and the University will ensure that the appropriate measures are taken to address the situation and remedy the harm in a timely manner.
• Use your POM Safety Device. This handheld device provides direct access to our campus safety officials in case of emergencies. Keep it charged. If you don’t have a POM, you can pick one up for free at the Howard University Service Center. 

Homecoming enjoyment is maximized when worries about safety are minimized. Thank you in advance for doing your part to ensure a pride-filled and memorable celebration. 

For updated Homecoming safety information, please visit https://publicsafety.howard.edu/homecoming.