Bridgewater State University Safety Escort Service

508-531-1745

7 Days a week, 7 P.M. - 3 A.M.

Providing a safe way to get around the BSU Campus.

 

Welcome

With several hundred riders each night, the Bridgewater State University Safety Escort Services provides a safe alternative to get to and from on-campus destinations. The service is supervised by the Bridgewater State University Police Department and employs Bridgewater State University students in both work study and non-work study jobs as drivers and dispatchers. Employees undergo a criminal background check and driving test prior to working.
 

The University Safety Escort Service consists of two vans and two buses that are available on-demand by calling extension 1745 or by activating any blue light telephone. Safety may also be "flagged" down. Safety Escort will pick up and drop off riders at any on campus destination including residence halls, academic buildings, and university parking lots. Please click here for a list of all Designated Safety Escort Stops
 

The Safety Escort Service is free of charge and is available to all students, employees, and guests of Bridgewater state University.  

 

 

Riding Tips

  • A ride may be requested by calling extension 1745 or by activating a blue light telephone. University Community members may also "flag down" a van.
     

  • Wait for the van in well lighted areas or inside the main doors of an academic building or residence hall. If being picked up from your car, please wait in your car with your headlights and 4 way flashers on.
     

  • The service is busiest on Thursdays - Saturdays and when it is raining. There may be a slight delay (10-15 minutes) on these nights.
     

  • Open containers of alcohol are prohibited in the Safety Escort vans.
     

  • Disruptive behavior is not tolerated and may result in removal from the van and police intervention and/or referral to the University discipline system.
     

  • Our Escort Drivers are required to obey all applicable traffic laws and University regulations. This includes vehicle seating capacities.  If a van is full, the driver will attempt to have another van come to your location.
     

  • If there is a significant delay, or there is a problem with the service, please call the Bridgewater State University Police Dispatcher at 508-531-1212.
     

The student-run Safety Escort Service proudly serves the Bridgewater State University community recently transporting approximately 111,000 community members and their guests in the 2010-2011 academic year.  Complaints against the Safety Escort Service and it's employees are taken seriously and all complaints will be reviewed and investigated if deemed necessary.  To learn more about how to file a formal complaint, offer suggestions, or share positive thoughts, please click on  Contact Safety Escort

 

Things you should know before call for a Safety Escort

Why don't the drivers just drive faster?
The main objective of the Safety Escort is to operate safely. All of the drivers understand that this is their main objective. Any drive observed speeding or operating in an unsafe manner will be terminated.  Please don't harass the drivers to go faster!

Why doesn't the Safety Escort pick me up on Burrill Avenue?
The Safety Escort vans are not allowed to operate on Burrill Avenue before the traffic island. Safety Escort enters and exits campus via Hooper Street. This is to reduce the likelihood of an accident on Burrill Avenue.

When should I call for a ride?
Typically you should call when you know you will be physically at the intended pick-up location within two (2) minutes.

Why don't they pick me up on the side of the road?
In order to maintain consistent pick-up and drop-off points and the safety of the drivers and passengers the vans will not pick up on the side of the road, unless it is safe to do so (Moakley, East Hall). Safety Escort will never stop to pick up on town roads.

Does Safety Escort pick up students from local businesses?
No. The Safety Escort maintains a strict list of Designated Safety Escort Stops that include all buildings and University parking lots, as well as some adjacent businesses. 

 

What if you choose NOT to use the Safety Escort Service

If you choose not to use the Safety Escort Service, the Bridgewater State University Police Department offers these tips for your safety while traveling around the campus, especially at night.

  • Plan your route. Walk on well-lighted, busy streets whenever possible.
     

  • Never take shortcuts through poorly lighted areas.
     

  • Don't walk alone. Get a friend to walk with you, especially at night.
     

  • If you must walk alone, walk near the curb. Avoid alleys, entryways, shrubs, and any unlighted areas.
     

  • Have your Connect Card or keys ready before you get to your apartment, office, or car.
     

  • If you discover that someone is following you, get to a well-lighted area (a dorm, academic building, a store, gas station, etc.) and telephone the police immediately.
     

  • Never accept a ride from a stranger.
     

  • Be alert and cognizant of your surroundings. Watch out for suspicious persons and dangerous situations.  Notify the Bridgewater State University Police of all suspicious persons by calling 508-531-1212 or 911 from an on campus phone.

 

 

Last Modified: April 29, 2013