As part of the University's mission to improve safety on campus, the Rutgers University Police Department (RUPD) is launching Rave Guardian, a free mobile safety app designed to help faculty, staff, students, and guests stay connected and access important campus safety resources. The app is available for use by all Rutgers University students, faculty, staff, and guests who are subscribed to the university’s Emergency Notification System (ENS).

Features of the App

• Easy Emergency Communication: With a push of a button, you can directly connect to 911 in an emergency.
   
• Real-Time Chat: Have real-time chat interactions with a Rutgers University 911 Communications Center member. Relay information to the 911 dispatcher and responding public safety personnel about suspicious behavior, unsafe situations, or crimes, and you can be sure the issue is being reported without drawing attention from those around you. The app allows you to send photos or videos.
   
• Push Notifications: Rave Guardian offers a seamless integration with the university Emergency Notification System in the event of an emergency. Users will receive adverse weather information and emergency alerts through the app. In extreme circumstances, phone lines may prevent some messages from going through quickly; Rave Guardian’s push notifications allow you to get the message instantly.
   
• Quick Access to Critical Resources: Beyond contacting RUPD or 911 with the touch of a button, you can also access important phone numbers and websites for safety and wellness resources.

Connecting the App to Rutgers

The app requires users to first subscribe to the university’s Emergency Notification System (ENS) and use the same phone number and email address to connect the app to Rutgers University. Users who do not use the same phone number and email address will download a generic version of the app that is not connected to Rutgers and will not offer the same features noted above.

To subscribe, visit the university’s ENS. Existing subscribers are encouraged to log in to the personal info tool to ensure their information is accurate and to verify which phone number and email address are associated with their subscription before downloading the Rave Guardian app. If you do not see the Rutgers logos in the app, you should uninstall it and verify the email address and phone number you used are correct before downloading it again:

Download the free Guardian app today at the Apple store or Google Play.

Text 911 During Emergencies

In certain circumstances, it may be necessary to send a text message to 911 instead of placing a phone call, including:

If you have a speech or hearing impairment. If speaking may cause you harm, like in a break-in or domestic violence situation.

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How to Text 911

Open the messaging app on your phone or wireless device.

• In the "To" field, type "911" with no punctuation.
• In the message field, type the location (address and municipality) and a brief description of the problem (example: "1234 E Main Street Franklin Twp I hear someone breaking in).
• Be sure to silence your phone so that the sound of a 911 reply does not give your location away.

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For more information regarding the Text to 911 service, visit: www.nj.gov/911/home/textto911v2.html

FAQs

Who can use Rave Guardian?

The app is available for all Rutgers University students, faculty, staff, and guests who subscribe to the university’s Emergency Notification System (ENS). To subscribe, visit the university’s ENS. Existing subscribers are encouraged to log in to the university’s ENS to ensure their personal information is accurate and to verify which phone number and email address is associated with their subscription before downloading the Rave Guardian app.

Can the Rave Guardian app track me?

No. Your privacy is of the utmost importance. You can only be located if you have asked for help. Rave Guardian location information is only enabled when making an emergency call.

Do I have to have “push notifications” turned on for the Rave Guardian?

We recommend that you allow notifications from Rave Guardian. This will alert you when you have received a response from RUPD during a chat session and when an emergency alert has been sent to the Rutgers community.

Is my profile information listed in Rave Guardian secure?

Yes. Rave Mobile Safety (the provider of Rave Guardian) uses the latest in security technologies and processes to ensure that all of your information is kept secure and private. Rave also undergoes regular security audits to ensure the information security of data.

Does Rave Guardian work off-campus?

Yes, the app works whether you are on or off campus; however, if you have an emergency at an off-campus location, you should dial 911.

How does my profile information get collected and sent to Rave Guardian?

Your profile information is generated from the contact information you enter in the Rutgers ENS system and Personal Info Tool. You must enter the same phone number and email address in order for the app to sync properly to Rutgers University. To view or update your data visit the personal info tool.

How do I download the app?

Download the free Guardian app today at the Apple store or Google Play.

Who do I contact if I have suggestions for resources to include on the app?

We are eager to offer relevant and important resources to our community. Please email your suggestions to rupdcomments@ipo.rutgers.edu.