SAFETY

When it comes to student safety, actions speak louder than words. Binghamton University has many resources in place to keep you safe.
Emergency Text Alerts (B-Alert)
In an emergency, to reach as many people as possible, the University employs multiple communication methods such as email, text alerts (B-ALERT) and an outdoor siren to notify you and/or your family. At the beginning of each semester, students logging into the my.binghamton.edu portal will be prompted to register a mobile telephone number into the system. Entering a valid mobile telephone number will ensure you receive the most up-to-date information if an emergency occurs. Although your parents cannot create their own account, you can enter up to three email addresses and three cellular contacts on your account. Parents may also choose to download a mobile application to receive alerts. Learn more about the mobile application and other ways to receive alerts!
Safety is our Priority
  • Residence hall safety − All residence hall doors are locked on a 24-hour basis, requiring key-card access.
  • On-campus escorts are available to all members of the University community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by calling University Police at 607-777-2393.
  • Harpur's Ferry Ambulance − Student-run advanced life support ambulance agency staffed by students certified as EMTs and paramedics who are ready to respond to all medical emergencies.
  • Safe Ride − Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) offers a Safe Ride program. Safe Ride is not an on-campus taxi service, but a program that provides a safe escort for individuals who feel uncomfortable walking alone after dark.

Complete details about campus safety initiatives can be found on the campus safety website.
Relationships
Healthy relationships are built upon a foundation of mutual respect, trust and support. If you think that you or someone you know might be involved in an unhealthy relationship, the Dean of Students Office and its CARE Team, the University Counseling Center and the VARCC are here to offer support.

Affirmative Consent

As stated in the Binghamton University Code of Student Conduct, “Affirmative consent is a knowing, voluntary and mutual decision among all participants to engage in sexual activity. Consent can be given by words or actions, as long as those words or actions create clear permission regarding willingness to engage in the sexual activity. Silence or lack of resistance, in and of itself, does not demonstrate consent. The definition of consent does not vary based upon a participant’s sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.”

  1. Consent to any sexual act or prior consensual sexual activity between or with any party does not necessarily constitute consent to any other sexual act.
  2. Consent is required regardless of whether the person initiating the act is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
  3. Consent may be initially given but withdrawn at any time.
  4. Consent cannot be given when a person is incapacitated, which occurs when an individual lacks the ability to knowingly choose to participate in sexual activity. Incapacitation may be caused by the lack of consciousness or being asleep, being involuntarily restrained, or if an individual otherwise cannot consent. Depending on the degree of intoxication, someone who is under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other intoxicants may be incapacitated, and therefore unable to consent.
  5. Incapacitation can look like:
    • Stumbling, slurring of words, incoherent words, falling asleep, unconsciousness, noticeably altered personality
  6. Consent cannot be given when it is the result of any coercion, intimidation, force or threat of harm.
  7. Coercion can look like:
    • Guilt, pressure, blackmail, gaslighting, threats
  8. When consent is withdrawn or can no longer be given, sexual activity must stop.

What Students Need To Know About Stalking
Did you know that one in three females and one in six males in the U.S. experience stalking during their lifetime? Cyber stalking is also common. While Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook and other social networking sites are a great way to connect with others on and off campus, it’s important to understand how it can negatively affect others. Use good judgment when sharing information online. If you think that you are currently being stalked — either in person, online or via technology — consider taking steps to protect yourself or involve an authority figure who can help you. Read more >
Some Tips:
  • If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or University Police at 607-777-2222.
  • Enhance your online privacy settings so you’re not visible to the general public.
  • Use gender-neutral screen names such as BUCampusLeader.
  • Carefully consider posting personal information online. Information like your phone number, address, class schedule or daily routine should be shared cautiously.
  • Sextortion is a form of digital blackmailing. Do not share personal pictures with anyone you do not know on social media.
  • Trust your instincts; if you think something is not right, notify someone.