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Fairfield's Sacred Heart University Rolls Out New Safety App

FAIRFIELD, Conn. – Sacred Heart University has released a new smartphone application — SHU Safe — that enhances the security of its community members both on and off the Fairfield campus.

The SHU SAFE App is available for both iPhone and Android users.

The SHU SAFE App is available for both iPhone and Android users.

Photo Credit: Sacred Heart University

This application is available for both iPhone and Android users and offers quicker access to emergency services as well as other safety features.

SHU Safe's primary function is serving as an emergency communication tool between the university community and campus security. SHU Safe offers three major features: emergency call, iReports and safety check.

The emergency call feature allows users to access emergency services at the push of a button. The user can choose police, fire or EMS and will be connected immediately with Campus Security if on campus. If the user is not on campus the call will be routed to the 9-1-1 center nearest where he or she is located.

Campus Security can see the caller's location anywhere on SHU property. As long as the phone is connected to the SHU Wi-Fi system, the location will show up. This only exception is the Stamford Graduate Center, but if the app is used there, it will connect to the Stamford Police Department.

Sacred Heart University is one of the first universities in the nation to launch a system so advanced that it can pinpoint where an individual is inside a building, instead of just identifying the building.

The iReports feature allows users to report suspicious activity or call for help in non-emergency situations, including a flat tire or locked door. The iReports feature may be used anonymously.

The safety check feature allows for a check-in with someone in the user’s contact list. For example, if a student will be walking home from class late at night or going for a jog after dark, he or she can let a contact know the expected arrival time. If the feature is not deactivated by the appointed time, the contact will receive a text.

“We have been working on this project for approximately six months with our vendor, 911 Cellular,” said Paul Healy, executive director of Public Safety at SHU. “We believe it is an excellent enhancement to the strong safety measures that are already in place.”

For more information on Sacred Heart University, visit its website at www.sacredheart.edu.

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