OSU Implements "Orange Shield" For Campus Safety

To enhance personal safety on the Oklahoma State University campus in Stillwater, the OSU Police Department has introduced Orange Shield. The free safety app enables to reach police almost immediately through their smart phones. The safety app, developed by 911 Cellular, not only connects the user to the proper 9-1-1 center, but also provides the user’s location through an internal positioning system or geographic locator. Once the app is opened, the user hits the “911” button and if they take no further action within three seconds the app summons help. The dispatcher can then forward the information including the user’s location to first responders. In addition to connecting the user to 911, the app has several other features: iReports Safe Walk Friend Watch Personal Profile The BUS schedule/locator The iReports feature allows users to send texts, photos and videos directly to OSU Police and these reports can be made anonymously. The Safe Walk button to the OSU Safe Walk program that provides Public Safety Officers to escort anyone across campus or within Greek housing between 7 p.m. – 3 a.m. Friend Watch is a peer-to-peer safety check. It allows users to designate a group of friends to receive notifications if the user fails to check in after a certain period of time designated by the user. Each user must also create a personal profile with important medical information that will automatically be available if an emergency call is activated. OSU is also encouraging Cowboy fans to download the app in order to make it simpler for them to connect with police and other safety resources while attending an OSU athletic event. For information on access and using Orange Shield visit safety.okstate.edu. The app is also available through the Apple App Store and Google Play.