FridayOL

The University of Kentucky (UK) is significantly bolstering campus safety measures with the introduction of cutting-edge technology, including drone surveillance and a comprehensive safety app, SafeZone. This multifaceted approach aims to create a safer and more secure environment for students, faculty, and staff.

Drone Surveillance for Proactive Safety

One of the key additions is the deployment of drones equipped with high-resolution cameras. These drones will be utilized for proactive patrols, particularly during evening hours and in areas identified as high-risk. The aerial perspective offers a wider view of campus, enabling security personnel to quickly identify and respond to potential incidents. UK Police emphasizes that the drones will be operated responsibly and in compliance with all privacy regulations. The data collected will be used solely for safety and security purposes.

SafeZone App: Your Pocket-Sized Safety Companion

Complementing the drone surveillance is the SafeZone app, a powerful tool available for free download to all students and staff. This app provides a range of safety features designed to empower individuals and enhance response times in emergency situations:

• Emergency Assistance: With a single tap, users can immediately connect with UK Police dispatchers, providing location data and crucial details about the situation.
• Anonymous Tips: The app allows users to submit anonymous tips regarding suspicious activity or potential safety concerns, enabling proactive intervention.
• Virtual Police Escort: Perhaps the most innovative feature, the virtual police escort allows individuals walking across campus, especially at night, to notify police of their location. A virtual escort 'follows' the user's location on a map, providing a sense of security and allowing police to monitor their progress. If the user deviates from their planned route or encounters an issue, police are immediately alerted.

Enhanced Communication and Response

UK Police officials highlight that the combination of drones and the SafeZone app significantly improves communication and response capabilities. The app's real-time location sharing allows dispatchers to quickly assess situations and dispatch resources effectively. The anonymous tip feature encourages community involvement in maintaining a safe campus environment.

A Commitment to Campus Safety

“The safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff is our top priority,” stated a UK Police spokesperson. “These new technologies represent a significant investment in creating a safer and more secure campus for everyone. We encourage all members of the UK community to download the SafeZone app and familiarize themselves with its features.”

The implementation of drones and the SafeZone app demonstrates UK's proactive commitment to campus safety, leveraging technology to enhance security measures and empower the campus community.