Department of Public Safety

The mission of the Department of Public Safety is to provide a safe and secure environment in which Wheelock College students, faculty, staff, and guests may learn, work, and live. The department offers a number of services and systems, and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. The campus emergency phone number is (617) 879.2151.

Personnel

All public safety personnel receive extensive training; are certified in first aid, CPR, and the use of automated external defibrillators (AED); and are very knowledgeable about the campus and Wheelock.

The Communications Center

The Public Safety Dispatch Center, located just inside Peabody Hall, 210 The Riverway, is staffed 24 hours a day by a trained communications professional. An access control system manages the various security devices located throughout the College and alerts the dispatcher to situations that require further attention. The dispatcher can direct immediate response for any breach of security or safety.

Building Access Policies

Residence Halls are locked 24 hours a day. Access is gained only by authorized personnel using their Wheelock College identification card in the card reader at the front entrance of each residence hall. All guests must be signed in at the Dispatch Center located in Peabody Hall and be escorted into the residence hall by their host. Escort policies vary during the school year according to schedules set up by the Office of Residence Life.

Academic and other non-residence buildingsare open during regular business hours. On weekends and holidays, faculty, staff and students may be asked to check in with the dispatcher at the Dispatch Center located in Peabody Hall and show their Wheelock College identification card.

Card Access System

An access control management system is installed throughout the campus. The system's primary function is to enhance the physical security of the buildings. Card readers are located at the front entrance of each residence hall and are accessed by students using their Wheelock College identification cards. Video surveillance is also part of card access at all main entrances and on the perimeter grounds of campus.

Emergency Phones

Exterior phones are located at the front entrances of each residence hall and at various locations throughout the campus. These phones may be used to dial any Wheelock College extension. Each phone also has an "Emergency" button that automatically dials the Dispatch Center when activated. The emergency phone system displays the exact location of the origin of the call to the Communications Officer who then dispatches a patrol unit to the scene.