PLAINVIEW, TX — Wayland Baptist University is expanding its campus safety resources with the introduction of the SafeZone mobile app at all teaching locations. The Plainview campus went online Wednesday with other campuses following shortly.
SafeZone adds a mobile component to Pioneer Alert, Wayland’s existing emergency notification system. Pioneer Alert will continue to notify students, faculty, and staff about emergencies, threats and closures through email, text and phone messages. Those who install SafeZone also will receive Pioneer Alert notifications directly through the app.
“SafeZone gives us another way to communicate quickly with members of the Wayland community while also putting additional safety resources directly into their hands,” said Police Chief Timothy Thornton. “Our goal is to give students and employees the tools they need to respond appropriately when something happens.”
In addition to mass notifications, SafeZone provides several personal-safety features. Users can request non-emergency help, call for medical assistance, or request emergency assistance if they feel threatened or unsafe.
The app includes Check-In, a feature that allows users to share their position with security personnel for added safety when working or traveling alone.
“Safety is something we all have a role in, and one of the best things people can do is prepare before an emergency occurs,” Thornton said. “We want our students, faculty, and staff to download SafeZone now, become familiar with it and have those resources available before they ever need them.”
SafeZone does not reveal a user’s identity unless the user calls for help.
The SafeZone app is free and available through the Apple App Store and Google Play. After downloading the app, users should follow the prompts to register, allow the necessary notification and location permissions, and select their Wayland location when prompted.
