GVPD safety app aims to protect students on campus

Mobile safety apps are now being utilized by thousands of college students across the country. The Grand Valley Police Department offers a free campus safety app called Rave Guardian.

The mobile phone app enhances safety on campus through real-time interactive features that create a virtual safety network of friends, family and law enforcement officials.

The app has several features, including a panic button that offers immediate connection to GVPD with GPS location and personal profile information. It also includes a safety timer, which allows students to identify guardians, such as friends, roommates and family members, when editing the timer's settings. During a timed session, guardians and GVPD can check the status of a student. If the safety timer is not deactivated before it expires, GVPD is automatically provided with the user's profile to check on the user's status. 

Whenever students, faculty or staff connect with GVPD from their mobile phone, the safety app automatically delivers a complete caller profile, including current location, medical conditions, course schedule, addresses, campus ID photo and other critical data.

"We are hoping all members of our campus community take advantage of this electronic escort program that is offered at no cost from the university," said Capt. Brandon DeHaan of the Grand Valley Police Department.

DeHaan said the department also offers the Safewalk program; students can request someone to accompany them to their destination. The service is offered seven days a week from 6 p.m.-2 a.m. during the fall and winter semesters. To request a Safewalk, call GVPD Dispatch at (616) 331-3255 or Pew Campus Security at (616) 331-6677.

For more information about Rave Guardian, visit www.gvsu.edu/gvpd/rave-guardian-129.htm