The Blue Light Kiosk Low-down

October 8, 2024

Stationed at the end of sidewalks and entrances of buildings, electric blue boxes and poles can be found illuminating the night. These blue light kiosks (also referred to as emergency phones, blue lights, or blue phones) are a key part of the University’s campus safety approach. But how do they work, you ask? Read on to find out. 

What do they do?

Each kiosk is equipped with a security camera monitored by the Department of Public Safety (DPS). They provide a direct connection to our campus’s 911 dispatch service. 

Electric blue emergency phone in front of a brick building.

When should I use it?

If you ever need assistance from fire, medical, or police, use the blue light kiosk. Common uses include: 

  • Medical emergencies
  • Suspicious activity
  • Accidents
  • Crimes in progress

Where are they located?

Over 60 blue light kiosks are located throughout campus, with the addition of a few in Dinkytown. Common places to see a phone include:

  • Sidewalks and high-traffic walkways
  • Parking garages
  • Attached to buildings 
  • In the Gopher Way

View the map of blue light locations

Why are they necessary?

Blue light kiosks are another tool to keep yourself and our campus safe. They can: 

  • Be helpful if you don’t have a phone with you
  • Provide real-time video monitoring
  • Connect you to UMPD 
  • Be helpful when adrenaline or fear may inhibit you from dialing 911 or for those who may not know our country’s emergency number 
  • Be easier to use with just the push of a button

How do I use it?

  1. Push the button to get connected to 911. DPS will be notified, and the LED light will flash so that emergency services can locate you.
  2. Answer the questions provided by the dispatcher as accurately as possible.
  3. Dispatch will send a UMPD officer and/or other emergency personnel to your location. If it is safe, wait for them to arrive.
  4. Keep talking to the dispatcher until help arrives. The call will end once first responders arrive on the scene. 

 

Categories: Students

Tags: Public Safety