Campus Safety Office Overview

Our team of Special Constables, Dispatchers, and Fire Prevention Officers work together to enforce laws, respond to emergencies, and promote safety awareness across campus.

Special Constables

• CSO Special Constables have similar powers and authorities as police officers, limited to the boundaries of the University of Guelph.

• CSO may also lay charges under University of Guelph Student Rights & Responsibilities.

• The CSO maintains a close working relationship with Guelph Police Services, the Guelph Fire Department, and other related agencies. 

Dispatchers

• CSO Dispatchers are trained in Emergency Services Communications.
• They help with requests for assistance from the University community as well as the public.
• They monitor video surveillance cameras, emergency phones, intrusion alarms, and fire alarms.
• The Dispatch unit is also the communication center for after hours non-emergency situations such as maintenance issues and lockouts.

Fire Prevention Officers (FPOs)

• CSO Fire Prevention Division maintains and inspects all components of fire safety in all campus buildings. 

• FPOs use the Ontario Fire Code and applicable regulations and standards in decision making and enforcement. 

• FPOs provide training to members of the campus community, develop fire safety plans for each on-campus building, and respond to medical calls alongside the First Response Team. 

First Response Team (FRT)

• The FRT is a student-run team of volunteers.
• They provide on-call and special event coverage in the form of emergency first-aid services.
• FRT work alongside our Special Constables and FPOs to respond to medical calls on campus.
• They operate 24 hours 7 days a week during the academic year. Please refer to the FRT website for more information.

Integrated Mobile Police and Crisis Team (IMPACT)

• Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) IMPACT team works together with the CSO to provide after-hours (Thursday to Sunday) mental health support for students throughout the academic school year.
• Their role is to fill the gap when regular wellness services are closed and to respond and assist students who may be in crisis.
• Please refer to the IMPACT website for more information.

Auxiliary Unit

• CSO Auxiliary Unit provides students with the opportunity to work alongside a CSO Special Constable.
• The program is offered to students who display an interest in law enforcement and who are enrolled in Criminal Justice and Public Policy.
• Auxiliary students complete ride-a-longs with Constables and are exposed to different aspects of policing.
• This experience is a great opportunity for students to learn about the University, law enforcement, and themselves.