Security

Most of the time, Berkeley is a very safe city.  There is a large police presence both off and on campus, and the university has its own police force, UCPD.  However, keep in mind that Berkeley is an urban area..  Visitors should always be aware of their surroundings, and always walk with a buddy at night.

For those who would like an additional measure of safety, there is also a night escort service.  Uniformed, radio-equipped, and trained student employees of UCPD, Community Service Officers provide a walking escort to nearby residences, public transportation, or parking facilities between the hours of 6pm and 2am.  You can reach them at (510) 642-WALK.

To further ensure your safety, you can ride a campus run shuttle for a quarter throughout most the day, and free at night.  There is also a free door-to-door Night Safety Owl line running 3~6am daily with door-to-door services.  Just dial (510) 642-6760 from any telephone (*Tip* look out for the phones lit by blue lights; they are free campus phones and have a panic button for use in the case of an emergency.  They also have the shuttle schedules.)

At all dances and large group activities, the university policy requires that there be security presence.  Rest assured that if you attend any one of these well-run events on campus, you will be protected.

If you choose not to experience the Berkeley nightlife, you can relax in your hotel knowing that your safety is of the utmost concern to the hotel staff.  They are very knowledgeable about security issues and are well trained to deal with any if they should arise.  Twenty-four hour front desk service guarantees that your safety needs will never go unattended.

Berkeley is a wonderful place to visit.  There are many museums, shopping areas, hiking trails, and beautiful panoramic views.  As long as all readers do not get distracted on their journey and always follow common guidelines, safety should never be an issue