Resources

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Get Emergency Text Alerts

During emergencies, Rutgers students, faculty and staff can receive up-to-date information via text message. To register, update your emergency notification information (NetID Required).

Campus Operating Status

Rutgers University Shared Services Emergency Communications Center (RUSSECC) Serving the Community 24/7

Overview

The RUSSECC is a fully operational Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP), staffed around the clock, 365 days a year. Our trained public safety telecommunicators are the first point of contact for all 911 calls and non-emergency calls made on Rutgers campuses as well as certain outside partner agencies. Whether you're reporting a crime, fire, medical emergency, or other urgent situation, our team is equipped to quickly assess the nature of the call and take appropriate action. This may include:

For Rutgers University communities:

  • Direct dispatch of Rutgers University Police Department (RUPD), Emergency Medical Services, or other university-affiliated emergency responders.
  • Seamless transfer and coordination with local municipal, county, or state public safety agencies when an incident occurs outside of Rutgers' jurisdiction or requires additional support.

For our Shared Services partner communities:

  • Direct dispatch of local Police Department (PD), Fire Department (FD) and Emergency Medical Services, or other emergency responders.
  • Seamless transfer and coordination with local municipal, county, or state public safety agencies when an incident requires additional support.

All calls are handled with professionalism, urgency, and a deep commitment to the safety of the communities we serve.

  • Please note: Emergency response units will continue to be dispatched for the appropriate public safety personnel assigned to your campus or area, ensuring timely and effective response to every emergency.
  • Your safety is our priority. If you need help, dial 911 — we're always here for you.
     


Using 911 Wisely: Helping Us Help You

At the Shared Services Emergency Communications Center, we are committed to educating the public on the proper use of 911 emergency services. While every situation is different, our mission is to respond to emergencies as quickly and effectively as possible — and that starts with making sure 911 is used appropriately. 

To support this goal, we actively promote awareness about when to call 911 — and just as importantly, when not to. Understanding the difference helps ensure that emergency lines stay open for those who need urgent help. Below are some general examples to guide you. This list isn’t exhaustive, but it offers helpful direction on how to use 911 responsibly and effectively.

When to Call 911

  • Any immediate or potential threat to life or property Any vehicle accident
  • Any medical emergency
  • Any fire emergency
  • Any suspicious persons, vehicles, or activity
  • Any type of fight or disturbance
  • Any other actual or perceived emergency

When NOT to call 911

  • Power outages
  • To see if school is closed
  • Directions
  • Telephone problems
  • Water/plumbing problems
  • Parking issues
  • When calling can put you in danger (text to 911 available in NJ)

What to know when calling 911

  • Your location (exact street address, cross streets, landmarks)
  • Your call back number
  • Questions asked should always be answered to the best of your ability. The answers assist first responders in proving a safer outcome for everyone involved in the emergency

To report a crime or to view location-specific information, visit:

Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD)

Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) System: Enhancing Emergency Response

The RUSSECC utilizes a state-of-the-art Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system to support the efficient and effective management of emergency situations across the communities we serve.

Key functions of the CAD system include:

  • Efficient Call Handling: Streamlines the intake and management of emergency calls, ensuring timely and accurate communication between callers and dispatch personnel.
  • Access to Critical Information: Provides emergency responders with real-time access to essential data, including nearest cross streets, prior incident history at the location, known medical conditions, key holder information and any identified hazards — all of which help inform and enhance the response.
  • Targeted Dispatching: Ensures that the most appropriate public safety personnel andresources are dispatched to the scene based on the nature and urgency of the incident.

By leveraging advanced technology, the CAD system plays a vital role in supporting the safety and well-being of the community through fast, informed, and coordinated emergency response.

Public Safety Radio Communications

Advanced Radio Communications for Seamless Public Safety Response 

Rutgers University Public Safety operates on a Project 25 (P-25), 700 MHz digital trunked radio communications network that spans statewide coverage. This cutting-edge system represents the latest standard in public safety communications technology. 

The P-25 system is designed to ensure interoperability across multiple agencies and jurisdictions — including local, county, state, and federal partners. This means that during emergencies or largescale incidents, Rutgers Public Safety can communicate seamlessly with other first responders, ensuring faster coordination, improved situational awareness, and a more unified response. 

By leveraging this advanced communications infrastructure, Rutgers remains fully aligned with national public safety standards, reinforcing our commitment to the safety and security of our campus community.

Public Safety Alternate Phone Numbers

The telephone numbers for the University's Shared Services Emergency Communications Center have not changed. You may download a printable PDF of the Rutgers Police emergency and non-emergency lines.

Departments are advised to check their internal telephone systems and communicate to staff what prefix (i.e. 9, 8, etc) is needed to obtain an outside line in order to dial 911. Likewise, departments are advised to ensure any speed dials for emergency services (police, fire, medial) have been correctly programmed.