Safety and Security Basics

Know the basics of campus security and the resources available to you.

Public Safety's site offers a wealth of information related to staying safe and secure on the College of Charleston campus.  To avoid information overload, please familiarize yourself with the below Campus Safety and Security document.  This document provides a basic understanding of Public Safety and the resources available to the campus community.

Download the printable Security & Basics Resource (PDF) 

Our Commitment

The College of Charleston prioritizes the safety and well-being of every student, faculty and staff member. Our nationally accredited Department of Public Safety operates 24/7 to maintain a secure campus environment and maintains close working relationships with the Charleston Police Department and other local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.

  • Public Safety Officers are certified law enforcement officers and South Carolina State Constables with statewide jurisdiction.
  • Emergency procedures are clearly outlined on in the Campus Emergencies section of the website.

Emergency Notifications: Cougar Alert

  • The College’s emergency notification system, Cougar Alert, can reach students, faculty, staff and others within minutes of a campus crisis. Alerts include action steps to take in the event of an emergency.
  • Alerts are sent via text, email, phone, and web during major emergencies (e.g., severe weather, active aggressor, etc.).
  • Students and employees with CofC credentials are automatically enrolled to receive Cougar Alerts. Campus members can update their emergency contact information in MyPortal.
  • CofC parents, families, and others can sign up to receive Cougar Alerts:
    • Text the word cougaralert to 333111.
  • The College also issues Campus Advisories via College email for non-urgent situations.
  • View more emergency resources at: emergency.charleston.edu/cougaralert/

Pedestrian Safety Tips

  • Follow the rules of the road and obey traffic signs and signals.
  • Do not cross mid-block. Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections.
  • Watch for cars turning, entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
  • When crossing the street, stay alert: check for signs, signals, and the actions of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians around you.
  • Do not rely on others to keep you safe; stay off your phone, make eye contact with drivers when possible and wait for a clear, complete stop before crossing.

Safe Transportation: Cougar Shuttle

846.636.0972
  • Cougar Shuttle offers free rides for students on the Charleston peninsula.
  • Runs 7 nights a week, 11 p.m. – 3 a.m. during fall and spring semesters.
  • Call 864.636.0972 to request a ride; Cougar Card required.

Security Escort Program

843.953.5609

  • 24/7 escorts available for students who feel unsafe walking alone to and from any campus buildings or spaces.
  • Call 843.953.5609 to arrange a security escort.
  • More information on the Security Escort Program

Mental Health & Counseling Support

  • Free, confidential counseling for all enrolled students: Individual sessions, group therapy, and crisis intervention: Counseling Center
  • After-hours support: Call 843.953.5640 option #3.
  • For life-threatening emergencies, dial 911.
  • Students 4 Support is a student organization that has highly trained peer volunteers available to chat, listen and assist with your academic, personal and social questions, concerns and frustrations.
  • Clyde the Chatbot offers 24/7 access to academic, financial, and wellness resources.

Proactive Safety Measures

  • Regular training and awareness programs (active aggressor response, crime prevention, etc.).
  • Report suspicious activity via Crime Action Line: 843.953.4998.
  • Anonymous tips may also be submitted on the College of Charleston’s Silent Witness and Anonymous Reporting page.
  • As always, anyone who notices suspicious activity or has any public safety concerns is urged to call 911.