New Security System Something to “Rave” About

Quinnipiac security now has the technology to track the exact location of a student's call in case of an emergency.

With the help of a new system called Rave Guardian, students opting to use the free service have their cell phone numbers programmed into the security system, so when they dial an emergency number, their photo, residence hall, and location comes up on a computer in the security office.

According to Chief of Security David Barger, the university implemented the guardian system last year, but did not begin marketing it until this semester.

"It's all about response time," Barger said. "We've gained new technology. People expect service quicker."

Around 80 students have signed up for the Guardian system this far, according to Barger.

"I think the principle behind it is good," Ben Wald, senior class representative and security liaison, said. "If it would make someone feel more comfortable, then of course it's worth it."

Some students, however, are uneasy about the system.

"It's kind of big brother-ish," Joe Avena, junior media production major, said."They can connect to your phone.

How do you know they can't do it a different way without you pushing a button?"

Barger thinks the concerns are outweighed by the benefits.

"I think the students are looking at us as big brother, and we're not big brother in this case," Barger said.

"We'll know where you are when you're in trouble. There's no need for us to know where you are any other time."

Rave users can also calculate the amount of time it should take to travel between different locations on campus. According to Barger, the technology will alert security via the user's cell phone, if they do not arrive at a particular destination within the expected time it should take to walk to their destination.

Quinnipiac also uses Rave Alert to notify registered users of emergency situations. Security will also send out a message via text to alert users about issues like adverse weather conditions.

Security on Campus Inc. lists the Rave system, as one of the top things applicants to college should consider when looking at a university's safety measures.

According to Security on Campus Inc. (SOC), "More recent technologies, like those from Rave Wireless, which transform students' mobile phones into personal alarm devices, are also poised to reduce crime on campus." SOC is a non-profit organization devoted to college and university safety on campus.