Your safety supports your success

Nothing is more important than making the PennWest California campus a place where we all can live, learn, and work in a safe, secure environment. Statistics show that California is one of the safest college towns in Pennsylvania. Our professional PennWest California Police Department is on duty around the clock, every day of the year, to respond to emergencies, enforce the law and University regulations, and investigate incidents on campus.

Fire alarms and sprinkler systems are installed in all campus buildings, including residence halls and Vulcan Village apartments. Security cameras in key locations and emergency call boxes in parking lots and other public areas also enhance security at PennWest California.

Emergency Numbers

To request assistance or report a crime:

Feel free to visit the police station in the Pollock Building on Hamer Way, near the railroad crossing to talk to an officer.

Sign Up for Text Alerts

Students are encouraged to register for PennWest California Alerts, our emergency text alert system used to notify the campus community about situations that pose an imminent physical threat, including severe weather conditions that result in classes being delayed or cancelled.

Students must register online with their campus username and password to receive emergency text alerts, and they must renew their registration each year. Each user may register two cellphone numbers to receive the alerts.

Register Today

University Police

Learn more about the PennWest California Police Department and the measures they take to help keep our students, employees, and visitors safe.

Guides and Reports

View the Quick Reference Guide for Emergencies, see PennWest California's crime and fire statistics, and review evacuation procedures for people with disabilities.

Policies

PennWest California has developed policies for the safety of students, faculty, and staff. Read more about these policies here.