CWRU Division of Public Safety

Happy first day of summer, CWRU! As the sun sets on spring and we step into brighter days, remember the basics that keep you well all season long — hydration habits, sun protection, and staying aware during outdoor activities. Enjoy the warmth, take care of yourself, and make space for rest and joy this summer.

Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when freedom finally reached the last enslaved Black Americans in Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It stands as both a celebration of Black resilience and a reminder of the ongoing work toward equity and justice. Within the Division of Public Safety, Juneteenth invites us to reflect on how safety, dignity, and belonging must be upheld for every member of our community. Honoring this day means acknowledging the history that shapes present-day disparities and strengthening our commitment to practices rooted in respect, accountability, and partnership.

Strong winds can create dangerous waves and currents along the lake. When a wind advisory or beach hazard statement is issued, conditions aren’t safe for swimming, paddling, or walking on piers. Stay off breakwalls, avoid the water during alerts, and stick to guarded beaches. Summer fun is better when everyone gets home safe.

Hey Spartans,
Extreme heat and summer power outages can be especially dangerous for older adults. Staying connected and prepared makes all the difference.

Don’t stay home alone during a heat event or outage. Make sure a trusted friend or relative has an extra key, knows where you keep your emergency supplies, and can safely use any lifesaving equipment or help with medication management if needed.

Drink fluids regularly to prevent dehydration and overheating. Ask your doctor whether you should use drinks with added electrolytes during very hot weather.

Limit time outdoors. Heat affects older adults more quickly, so take frequent breaks to come back inside, cool down, and choose drinks without caffeine. Learn more about heat safety for older adults to stay protected all summer.

Gun violence affects every community, including campuses like ours. Every day in the U.S., 120 people lose their lives to gun violence, and many more are impacted physically and emotionally. Creating a safer environment starts with all of us: noticing when something feels off, checking in on one another, and speaking up when concerns arise. Our campus is strongest when students, faculty, and staff work together to protect it. Safety is a shared responsibility, and every voice matters. 🧡

Hey Spartans,

Things are heating up this week, if you are planning to beat the heat at the beach or your local pool, here are some water safety tips to keep you safe:

Swim with a friend. Even strong swimmers should make sure they are in the water with someone else who can swim.

Know how to perform CPR on children and adults.

At the beach or in a lake, only swim in areas with a lifeguard on duty. Follow all signs and warnings.

Stay alert to rip currents. Check water conditions before going in by looking at the local beach forecast before you leave. Visit the National Weather Service Before You Go in the Water page to learn more about what to do if you’re caught in a rip current.

Keep an eye on the weather forecast. If a thunderstorm approaches when you are swimming or near water, get out of the water and seek shelter in a house, large building or car with its windows closed.

Know how deep the water is. Do not dive into the water if you don’t know how deep it is. Diving into shallow water can cause serious injury or death. Even strong swimmers should be aware when they are in deep water.

Summer brings concerts, festivals, sporting events, and holiday celebrations. Large crowds can increase safety risks—plan ahead so you can respond quickly if needed.

- Know your surroundings. When you arrive, locate exits, medical tents, and security staff. Choose a meeting spot in case your group gets separated.

- Stay informed. Make sure your phone can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts and follow instructions from local officials.

- Prepare for weather. Check the forecast and take steps to stay safe in the heat.

- Report concerns. If you see something suspicious, notify event staff or law enforcement.

Pride Month recognizes the resilience, leadership, and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community across our campus and surrounding neighborhoods. Our division remains committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all. Happy Pride, CWRU! 🌈

As the weather warms up and we spend more time biking, skateboarding, rollerblading, and riding scooters throughout the city, it’s important to wear our helmets. Warmer days mean more movement, let’s make every ride a safe one. Stay alert, stay protected, and enjoy the sunshine! ☀️

The Division of Public Safety is excited to host its second Safety Town on campus this summer! This free, interactive program is designed for children ages 5–6 and introduces them to essential safety skills in a fun, engaging environment.

Through hands-on activities and playful learning, kids explore how to stay safe in their daily world. From pedestrian and bicycle safety to fire safety, stranger awareness, and understanding traffic rules.

Location: Veale Center, 2158 Adelbert Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106
Dates: Monday, August 3 – Friday, August 7
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cost: Free

Visit our website to register your child today and help them build confidence, awareness, and lifelong safety habits!