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Health & Safety

Health & Safety

Stanford’s Commitment to Your Safety

Stanford has committed significant resources to ensure your day-to-day safety and to prepare for and respond effectively in the event of an emergency.
Student Housing and Residential & Dining Enterprises (R&DE) take leading roles in this effort.

  • R&DE has a comprehensive emergency plan for all housing and dining facilities and takes part in campus-wide planning and training exercises.
  • Student Housing works closely with the Department of Public Safety.
  • The county Fire Marshall regularly inspects student residences, which are equipped with fire safety devices; fire drills are scheduled quarterly.
  • Student residences are locked 24/7 and are accessible only to students with keys.
  • Select graduate and undergraduate residences have electronic guest entry systems, called DoorKing, that give residents control over who can and cannot enter the building and common areas.
  • Safety and evacuation instructions are posted in each residence hall room and in apartments in multi-story buildings.
  • Residence hallways and exit routes are inspected daily to ensure that they are clear of obstructions.
  • R&DE stores food and emergency supplies throughout the campus in the event of an earthquake.

What You Can Do To Stay Safe

Despite Stanford’s best efforts, the University alone cannot ensure your security. Your partnership is critical to providing a safe environment, and being prepared is your own best defense against campus crime and in emergency situations.

  • Familiarize yourself with this website.
  • Learn standard procedures listed here for staying safe in your residence and while traveling on campus.
  • Review the most recent Stanford Security Report and procedures listed below to understand steps to take in the event of an emergency.

Contact your Housing Service Center or Housing Building Manager if you have questions about your safety on campus.

Everyday Safety

Even though Stanford benefits from its relatively safe location in suburban Silicon Valley, take these practical measures to enhance your safety.