Safety & Security

In order to ensure the safety of residence students, personal belongings, and University property, the University of Prince Edward Island promotes a shared responsibility and awareness for safety among residence students, management, and UPEI. Please see the following section on safety protocols, which are enforced to protect each resident.

24-Hour Lock-Up

All three residences are locked at all times for the safety and security of the occupants. In addition, all of our residence facilities are equipped with surveillance cameras at all entrances and exits to help ensure the safety of our residents. Every resident of the building possesses a key allowing him/her access to the building. In order for this policy to be effective, it must be supported by the students.

Residents are expected to ensure that uninvited guests do not follow them into their Halls. Individuals who are not recognized should be questioned as to why they are on the premises. Residents who prop open exterior doors compromise the security of all residents, and are subject to disciplinary action.

Campus Watch

Personal security is important to all residence students. By looking out for themselves, and for one another, residents are able to significantly increase the security of their new home. Listed below are just some of the ways in which this can be accomplished.

  • NEVER prop open exterior doors.
  • Do not allow unknown people to follow you into your residence.
  • Report any persons who appear suspicious to your RLA.
  • Keep your room door locked at all times.
  • Insure your belongings. UPEI does not take responsibility for lost, damaged, or stolen property.
  • Do not leave valuables in open view.

Exit Routes & Evacuation Locations

Emergency exit routes are posted on the back of each residence room/apartment door. Residents are expected to familiarize themselves with these routes as soon as possible after move-in. Residence evacuation locations are as follows:
Bernardine Hall – pathway between McDougall Hall and Campus Kids
Blanchard Hall – grassed area north of Blanchard Hall
Andrew Hall – parking lot "B" outside KC Irving Chemistry Centre

The Wanda Wyatt Dining Hall may be used as an evacuation location for all of the residences in case of inclement weather.

Fire or Smoke

Don’t panic! All residences are equipped with fire extinguishers and alarms that are well maintained and tested regularly. In case of fire or smoke, activate the nearest fire alarm. At the sound of the alarm:

  • Remain calm
  • Close windows
  • Put on appropriate clothing
  • Leave lights on
  • Feel the door for heat. If cool, open door slowly
  • Leave door closed but unlocked
  • Wake up residents in adjacent rooms
  • Evacuate by exit routes outlined on the back of your room/ apartment door
  • Use an alternate exit if you encounter heat or smoke
  • Re-enter the building only when it is deemed safe by Security personnel

If you cannot leave your room:

  • Keep door closed and unlocked
  • Call Security and let them know where you are
  • Signal to people outside through your window. Hang out a sheet or towel
  • Seal cracks in door with towels or sheets
  • Stay low to the floor
  • Await instructions

Please note: Tampering with or misusing firefighting or detection equipment is a serious offence. Offenders will be subject to criminal prosecution, as well as a maximum penalty of being expelled from residence without refund. Fire drills will occur periodically, without notice, during the academic year. All students are required to vacate the building when the alarm sounds.

Medical Emergency

All Residence Life Advisors are trained in First Aid and CPR, and all have access to First Aid kits. In case of emergency, an RLA should be contacted to deal with the immediate problem until further help arrives. Residents with similar training should identify themselves to their RLAs so they may assist in case of emergency.

Any residents with particular health problems are requested to identify themselves to their RLAs. This will help us deal effectively with any situations that may arise.

Security Personnel

A Security Attendant works in the residence buildings in the evenings, Sunday through Wednesday, and two Security Attendants work Thursday through Saturday. The Attendant checks all three residences regularly to ensure that entrances and buildings are secure. He/She also oversees guest sign-in policies, and can respond quickly to emergency situations within the residences.

In addition, UPEI Security Officers patrol the campus around the clock. These officers are special constables, and have all of the responsibilities and authority of city police force members.

Security Department Phone Numbers: (902) 566-0384 or (902) 566-0373