Safety

��PD welcomes newest officer and K-9 partners

Megan Maneval — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 16:56:13 +0000

��PD welcomes newest officer and K-9 partners Megan Maneval Tue, 11/25/2025 - 09:56

Officer Rickey Thomas being sworn in

K-9s Harlo (left) and Dax (right) being sworn in

The �� Boulder Police Department (��PD) celebrated the swearing-in of three new members this week during a ceremony at the Boulder County Courthouse: Officer Rickey Thomas and K-9s Dax and Harlo. The additions reflect ��PD’s continued commitment to campus safety, preparedness and community engagement.

Thomas joins ��PD from Fort Lewis College Police Department in Durango, where he served as a corporal, field training officer and academy instructor. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in criminal justice.

Thomas moved to Boulder with his husband and daughter seeking new opportunities and a welcoming community. With his husband being a �� Boulder alumnus, the family already felt a strong connection to the campus.

“Everyone I spoke to over the years talked about ��PD’s positive reputation for professionalism and investment in their officers,” Thomas said. “I’m excited to be a part of ��PD and the Boulder community, and I’m looking forward to serving this campus.”

Thomas said continuing his career in a campus environment was important to him.

“I enjoy working in a campus environment because it allows me to have an impact on people from all over the country and walks of life,” he said. He added that �� Boulder’s reputation for excellence played a major role in his decision to join the department.

“I was drawn to �� because of their reputation for being the best. I want to be the best version of myself, and to do that I want to be surrounded by the same.”

Thomas said he hopes his presence on campus helps build approachability and trust.

“My hope is that people know me as a person first, and if the time ever comes when they need the police, they know I am a safe and reliable person to call.”

While Dax, a black Labrador retriever, and Harlo, a golden Labrador retriever, have already been introduced to campus, the ceremony marked their formal swearing-in as explosive detection K-9s. The dogs will support major events and public outreach.

��PD is proud to welcome its newest members and looks forward to the important role they will play in supporting safety and connection across the �� Boulder community.

The �� Boulder Police Department celebrated the swearing-in of three new members this week during a ceremony at the Boulder County Courthouse: Officer Rickey Thomas and two K-9s—Dax and Harlo.

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New video series makes emergency alerts easier to understand

Megan Maneval — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:05:50 +0000

New video series makes emergency alerts easier to understand Megan Maneval Mon, 11/17/2025 - 09:05

�� Boulder has launched a new animated video series designed to help the campus community better understand and respond to our three levels of alerts.

“More clear. Less fear.” is a campaign that aims to empower �� Boulder students, faculty, staff and visitors with knowledge about emergency alert definitions and safety instructions, helping them make informed decisions during emergencies.

“We want our community to feel confident and informed when an emergency happens,” said Marlon Lynch, vice chancellor for public safety. “These videos are designed to explain what to expect and how to respond, in a format that’s accessible and easy to remember.”

The short-animated videos use infographics to explain �� Boulder’s three-tiered alert system:

Emergency Alerts—for safety

Sent when there’s an immediate threat to life or safety. You’ll receive these alerts via text, email, social media and other channels, with clear instructions on what to do. It's associated with the color red.

Watch the video

Safety Alerts—for awareness

Issued when there’s an ongoing threat on or near campus that needs your awareness (such as a robbery or motor vehicle theft). It’s associated with the color orange.

Watch the video

�� Advisories—for information

Shared for nonemergency situations that may affect you, such as road closures or nearby police activity. It’s associated with the color yellow.

Watch the video

The videos also explain key emergency terms such as “shelter in place” and “run, hide, fight” and emphasize the importance of acting quickly based on alert instructions rather than waiting for full details.

The series was born out of a grant awarded to the Institute of Behavioral Science’s Prevention Science Program by the Colorado Department of Public Safety’s Preventing Identity-Based Violence Program. �� Boulder researchers first conducted focus groups with faculty, staff and students about their safety-related needs and interests on campus.

One of the themes to emerge from the focus groups was the need for clearer guidance on the university’s emergency alert system.

The Prevention Science Program then worked in collaboration with the Division of Public Safety, Division of Social Sciences, Division of Student Life and Office of Strategic Relations and Communications to develop the content, focusing on short videos that felt practical rather than overwhelming.

“Students, faculty, and staff expressed a desire for more information about and clarification of ��’s emergency alert system and terminology, particularly because the response to an emergency on a college campus is different from the response to an emergency in K-12 schools,” said Sarah Goodrum, director of the Violence Prevention Project in the Prevention Science Program. “This campaign used that feedback to develop clear, short explanations about the university’s three alert levels and key emergency alert terms.”

Through this collaborative effort, the campus developed this campaign to meet the campus community’s needs, is informed by best practices and is accessible across various platforms.

“This is a resource for everyone who steps foot on campus,” Lynch said. “We want all community members and their loved ones to feel more prepared and less anxious during emergency situations.”

The campaign supports the Division of Public Safety’s broader efforts to build trust and awareness of �� Boulder’s integrated approach to campus safety.

�� Boulder has launched a new animated video series designed to help the campus community better understand and respond to alerts.

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Help reduce nutrient and E. coli contamination in Boulder Creek

Anonymous — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 13:57:17 +0000

Help reduce nutrient and E. coli contamination in Boulder Creek Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 10/17/2025 - 07:57

At �� Boulder, we are fortunate to have beautiful waterways, including Boulder Creek, integrated into our campus ecosystem. However, keeping these waterways healthy requires our collective effort.

Boulder Creek is considered an impaired waterway by the state of Colorado due to excess amounts of Escherichia coli bacteria (E. coli). While Boulder Creek is not currently considered impaired by nutrient pollution, raising awareness about nutrients is key to help prevent future impairment.

Nutrient pollution: What is it and why should we care?

Nutrient pollution occurs when excess compounds of nitrogen and phosphorus enter our waterways, often from sources like fertilizers, pet waste and improperly disposed organic material. These nutrients can be washed off lawns and gardens during rainfall or irrigation, flowing directly into storm drains and, ultimately, into our stormwater systems. Once in the water, they can cause algal blooms, which deplete oxygen levels, harm aquatic life and degrade water quality.

E. coli contamination in Boulder Creek

In addition to nutrient pollution, E. coli, a common bacterium from multiple sources, also impacts Boulder Creek. Urbanization reduces the number of porous surfaces and increases contamination sources that wash into the storm sewer, promoting bacterial growth. The university is actively investigating and addressing the sources of E. coli in stormwater discharges.

How you can help reduce nutrient pollution and E. coli loading

Fertilizer use: Avoid over-fertilizing lawns and gardens, and never apply fertilizers near storm drains.
Organic waste: Properly dispose of lawn clippings, leaves and other organic material instead of letting them wash into storm drains.
Pet waste: Always clean up after your pets. Pet waste contributes to both bacteria and nutrients that pollute stormwater.
Trash disposal: Place all garbage in waste containers, and avoid feeding wildlife, which can increase waste in waterways.
Report issues: If you see illegal dumping or clogged storm sewer inlets on campus, contact Facilities Management at 303-492-5522.

As a large, eco-conscious community at �� Boulder, we have a great opportunity to work together to protect our stormwater resources and contribute to the university’s sustainability goals. By adopting simple habits like cleaning up after pets, properly disposing of waste and being mindful of fertilizer use, each of us can make a positive impact.

For more information, visit the �� Boulder Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) stormwater guidelines webpage or contact EH&S at 303-492-6025 or ehs@colorado.edu.

At �� Boulder, we are fortunate to have beautiful waterways, including Boulder Creek, and keeping these waterways healthy requires our collective effort.

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Get theft prevention tips for your car and belongings inside your car

Anonymous — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:49:59 +0000

Get theft prevention tips for your car and belongings inside your car Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 10/14/2025 - 09:49

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Colorado ranked fourth in the country for the number of cars stolen in 2023.

Get more tips

Preventing bike theft

As with most college campuses, bike thefts are the leading crime at �� Boulder, so be sure to read these safety tips.

Preventing device theft

Our phones, tablets and laptops often contain personal information and important data, having great value to criminals. These pointers from ��PD can help prevent your devices from being stolen.

While not one of our leading crimes on campus, car thefts and property theft from inside cars can happen to anyone, anywhere. Since the beginning of this academic year, the �� Boulder Police Department (��PD) has received two reports of attempted motor vehicle theft on campus. Here are a few steps you can take to help prevent this from happening to you.

If your car will be there after dark, park it in a well-lit area near a lamp post or camera if possible.
Never leave items of value out in the open. This includes open and unopened bags, phones, headphones, computers and more. Thieves love to know there is something they could get before breaking in.
Make sure your doors are locked and your windows are closed. Even a small opening can be useful to a thief.
Unless you have a remote starting device, never leave your car unattended while it is running.
Consider installing a security alarm to your car to act as a deterrent. Also, after-market items such as steering wheel locking mechanisms or even a GPS tracking device, like an Apple AirTag, can be a good tool as well.
Report any suspicious behavior to ��PD by calling the ��PD non-emergency line at 303-492-6666.

Just a few simple steps could help prevent you from becoming a victim of this crime.

While not the most common crime on campus, car theft and property theft from inside cars can happen to anyone, anywhere. Here are a few steps you can take to protect your belongings.

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�� Boulder launches campus safety app: �� Boulder Safe

Megan Maneval — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 19:48:21 +0000

�� Boulder launches campus safety app: �� Boulder Safe Megan Maneval Wed, 10/08/2025 - 13:48

�� Boulder has launched a new mobile safety app, �� Boulder Safe. The app is designed to centralize emergency alerts, safety tools and campus resources—making it easier for students, faculty and staff to find everything they need in one place. �� Boulder Safe is free for campus affiliates and available on both iOS and Android devices.

Once downloaded, campus community members can log in with their �� Boulder credentials to receive emergency alerts, connect with dispatch for support, and access important safety resources. The app brings together tools that were previously spread across multiple websites and platforms, including links to Buff Bus, ��NightRide, parking and campus maps, mental health services and campus reporting options.

“Safety is a shared responsibility, and this app gives every member of our community the tools they need to stay informed, connected and supported—whether in an emergency or just going about their day,” said Marlon Lynch, vice chancellor for public safety.

One of the key new features is a built-in text function to communicate with dispatch in non-emergency situations. Another new feature is Virtual Walkhome, which enables you to allow �� Boulder Police dispatchers to monitor your location as you walk across campus. It’s designed to give you peace of mind if you’re walking alone—especially at night. The Friend Walk option, which the campus previously offered through the Guardian app, lets you share your location with a trusted friend or family member who can track your route until you arrive safely.

“The �� Boulder Safe app is one more tool that our students, faculty and staff now have access to that provides added safety and security to our campus,” said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. “Offering such a resource through the Division of Public Safety is critical to the university’s priority of building a more safe and resilient campus community.”

The app also includes quick access to ��PD, alerts social feeds (@��BoulderAlerts and @��BoulderPolice), and community safety partners like BoCoAlert and the Boulder Police Department.

�� Boulder Safe will eventually replace the Guardian safety app, which will be phased out later this year. Help us get the word out—encourage your colleagues and students to download the �� Boulder Safe app and start using it today.

How to download �� Boulder Safe

�� Boulder Safe is an app available for download by all students, faculty and staff. You must have an IdentiKey to access the app.

In the Apple App or Google Play store, search for and download the “�� Boulder Safe” app
Open the app and log in using your IdentiKey credentials.
Make sure to enable push notifications. This will allow you to receive real-time emergency alerts through the app.
Add your phone number to your profile. This helps dispatch reach you faster in an emergency.
Use the �� Boulder Safe app to access key safety features provided by the campus.

A new free app for �� Boulder students, faculty and staff offers emergency alerts, reporting tools and safety features in one place.

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Bear safety tips: Mind your trash, more

Anonymous — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 18:39:06 +0000

Bear safety tips: Mind your trash, more Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 09/25/2025 - 12:39

Bears are sporadically seen in the Boulder foothills and, on rare occasions, on campus.

It’s important that students, faculty, staff and the larger Boulder community become familiar with bear safety tips:

Don’t feed bears, and don’t put out food for other wildlife that attracts bears.
Be responsible about trash and bird feeders. The city of Boulder has a city ordinance that requires trash to be secured in bear-resistant trash cans or carts for residents in designated areas within Boulder. Residents within the secure trash implementation zone, including students living in rental units, should be provided with retrofitted bear-resistant trash cans/carts from their trash disposal company. Learn more about the bear-resistant trash ordinance.
Keep all bear-accessible windows and doors closed and locked, including home, garage and vehicle doors. Don’t leave attractants such as snacks, food wrappers, gum or even scented hand lotions in your car, and don't leave pet food outside your home.
If you see a bear on campus, call 911. Stand still, stay calm and let the bear identify you and leave. Talk in a normal tone of voice. Be sure the bear has an escape route. If you see cubs, their mother is usually close by. Leave the area immediately.

Visit the Colorado Parks & Wildlife "Be Bear Aware" page or the Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks bears and mountain lions page for additional information and safety tips.

The �� Boulder campus is home to, or frequented by, raccoons, deer, squirrels, beavers, prairie dogs and dozens of species of birds. Foxes have also been making a rebound in the area. On rare occasions, we even get visits from larger animals such as coyotes and bears. �� Boulder's Environmental Services team offers a few simple reminders about interactions between people and wildlife on campus.

Black bears are common in Colorado, including in the Boulder foothills and, on rare occasions, campus. It’s important that students, faculty, staff and the larger Boulder community become familiar with bear safety tips.

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Tips for co-existing with campus wildlife

Anonymous — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 18:16:42 +0000

Tips for co-existing with campus wildlife Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 09/25/2025 - 12:16

Hawk on campus. Photo by Craig Levinsky.

�� Boulder’s campuses are home to, or frequented by, raccoons, deer, squirrels, beavers, prairie dogs and dozens of species of birds. Foxes have also been making a rebound in the area. On rare occasions, we even get visits from larger animals such as coyotes and bears.

It’s important to remember, however, that wildlife is wild for a reason and should be treated as such for the well-being of both the animals and our people. �� Boulder’s Environmental Services team offers a few simple reminders for students, faculty and staff about interactions between people and wildlife.

Do not approach or feed wild animals on campus, even squirrels or birds.
Do not feed the turtles or fish living in and around Varsity Lake, the Kittredge ponds or other ponds around campus.
If you come across an injured or dead animal, report it to the �� Facilities Management (FM) service desk at 303-492-5522 so that designated campus employees can properly assist or remove the animal.
Problems or human contact with squirrels, rodents, birds or other animals can likewise be reported to the FM service desk at 303-492-5522 at any time of day or night.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s (CPW) website includes several resources and tips, including how to avoid wildlife conflicts and why feeding wildlife is a bad idea. Websites for the city of Boulder and Boulder County also include valuable information related to local wildlife.
Remember, we are in pre-hibernation season, with bears needing to consume 20,000 calories; you could very likely see a bear during this time period. We want to get them off campus safely and do not want to tag a bear unless absolutely necessary—a tag will show CPW that it has been to the city once, and two tags on a bear’s ears mean it will need to be euthanized by state law.

“�� Boulder’s setting provides ample opportunities for observing wildlife, enhancing our enjoyment of campus and the outdoors,” said Troy Muller, wildlife manager and integrated pest manager at �� Boulder.

�� staff work together with wildlife specialists, Boulder Animal Control and Colorado Parks and Wildlife when dealing with wildlife issues on campus. Muller said the animals are handled with the utmost care to ensure their safety. They are usually sent to an animal refuge or up in the mountains to distance them from civilization.

“�� also invests in having an Integrated Pest Management department to make sure that when animals find their way to campus, they are cared for properly and, when necessary, safely removed from campus, ensuring the campus populace and the animal are safe,” Muller said “What makes �� Boulder such a special campus is the staff, faculty and student body can observe the wildlife, and we can all coexist with each other.”

Animal well being is top priority in wildlife management. “I feel very fortunate to work on such a beautiful campus and be around all the beautiful creatures that call this place home,” Muller said.

Shope papilloma virus in wild rabbits

There have been reports of rabbits with black tentacles growing out of their head in Fort Collins. The shope papilloma virus has been reported in all corners of Colorado for at least 100 years. While the virus itself is nothing new in this part of the country, the threat to domestic rabbits is concerning. The virus will move in all eight different species of Colorado’s wild rabbits and hares and can be transferred to domestic rabbits.

Take care not to let your pet rabbits be exposed to wild rabbits. Make sure the outdoor area where your rabbit may be exposed is secure and won’t allow wild rabbits to enter. Keep domestic rabbits inside during peak insect activity. Ticks and mosquitos act as vectors for the virus and are most busy at night in the hot summer and warm fall months.

The virus does not spread to humans, but if you see a rabbit with this affliction, please report it to the Operations Control Center.

�� Boulder's Environmental Services team offers a few simple reminders about interactions between people and wildlife on campus.

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Naloxone availability on campus and in Boulder

Megan Maneval — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 13:29:31 +0000

Naloxone availability on campus and in Boulder Megan Maneval Thu, 09/25/2025 - 07:29

Naloxone is an FDA-approved medication that can be used to temporarily reverse opioid overdoses. Free naloxone is available through Health Promotion on campus and through several programs in Boulder.

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Safety tips for earlier sunsets and fall evenings

Anonymous — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 18:23:02 +0000

Safety tips for earlier sunsets and fall evenings Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 09/18/2025 - 12:23

With cooler temperatures and earlier sunsets, there are some things to be more mindful of in autumn. Here are safety tips and reminders from Off-Campus Life for fall evenings.

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5 insights to help you recognize hazing

Anonymous — Tue, 16 Sep 2025 19:46:19 +0000

5 insights to help you recognize hazing Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 09/16/2025 - 13:46

Health and Wellness Services

College is full of opportunities to meet new people and join groups, and sometimes the pressure to fit in can lead groups to put new members at risk of harm. Here are some things to know about hazing.

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Safety

��PD welcomes newest officer and K-9 partners

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Nutrient pollution: What is it and why should we care?

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5 insights to help you recognize hazing

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��PD welcomes newest officer and K-9 partners

�� Boulder launches campus safety app: �� Boulder Safe