Safety and Security
The safety and security of your student is a top priority of the Office of Residential Life. For many students, attending college is an opportunity to experiment and try new things. While we support students who step outside of their comfort zone, we also encourage healthy decision-making.
We consider physical and emotional safety foundational to a productive living-learning environment for all those who live and work in the residential community. The Office of Residential Life staff maintain an active and responsive presence within our buildings and provide programs that educate residents about individual and community safety. We continually evaluate our decisions, actions, and strategies to mitigate and respond to conditions within or surrounding the On-Campus Housing community that may jeopardize the physical security, property, or well being, of students, staff, and faculty.
The safety section of our website we have designed for students outlines the policies we have in place to keep them safe, as well as assist them in taking individual responsibility for their choices. We invite you to visit the website to learn about the policies we are sharing with your student. Below is a quick overview of some of the rules of greatest concern to parents, along with safety topics to speak to your student about:
Alcohol Policy
Possession of visible alcohol containers, opened or closed, anywhere within or on the On-Campus Housing facilities that can be detected from outside the room/suite, is prohibited; inability to exercise care for one’s own safety, the safety of others, or the safety of property while under the influence of alcohol is considered an infraction.
Community Participation
Everyone who chooses to live in or visit On-Campus Housing must understand that we will not tolerate bigotry, threats, intimidation, violence or any other forms of harassment against any member of our community. In the same manner, we will not accept ignorance, humor, anger, alcohol or substance abuse as an excuse, reason or rationale for such behavior.
Disruptive Behavior
Behavior that disrupts or interferes with the orderly functions in or around the On-Campus Housing community is prohibited. Additionally, acts or behaviors that disrupt or interfere with others’ normal use of facilities or privileges are prohibited. Specifically designated quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Sunday night through Friday morning and 1:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Drug Policy
Unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, use, or sale of, or related attempts as defined under Federal and/or State law or regulations is prohibited.
Guest Policy
Resident hosts are expected to be present with their guests at all times. Residents are fully responsible for the conduct of their guests and for informing their guests of University rules and On-Campus Housing regulations. Residents may accommodate overnight guests pending prior arrangements with their roommate(s) and are limited to staying no more than four (4) nights per month.
Personal Property Safety
Many of the thefts that occur involve the criminal entering unlocked rooms or removing unattended property from public spaces such as laptops, monitors, and other electronic or personal items.
“Swiping”/Holding Doors
Residents are encouraged to help maintain the integrity of the door security system by not using their key card to allow any other individuals except escorted guests to enter the building’s common areas or resident living areas.
In the event that your student violates one of our policies, reviewing our conduct process will help you and your student understand what to expect from our educational process.
Living in Los Angeles
While the UCLA campus and nearby Westwood neighborhoods are generally safe, it is important that you help educate your student about personal safety. Some tips that you may want to discuss with your student are:
- Lock all doors and windows whenever you leave. Take your keys with you, even if you leave for only a short while.
- Avoid bringing large sums of money, jewelry, or valuable items to college. Leave them in a secure location at home.
- Make sure your purse or backpack is securely closed. Carry purses close to your body.
- Carry enough cash for cab fare, bus fare or telephone calls in case you become uncomfortable and need to go home.
- When walking or exercising, use a well-traveled route, walk purposefully, be observant, and avoid being out alone at night.
- To travel within the campus, call the free Campus Escort Service, a friend, or wait for a campus shuttle to help you get home.
- Report to the police any unusual or suspicious activity, or persons.