Campus Safety
A secure, close-knit community where you can focus on what matters most.
Protection you can count on, around the clock.
The BVU Campus Security team is committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Our officers patrol campus 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year — so you can focus on your education with confidence.
Led by Director Jessica Garling, our team includes 1 full-time coordinator, 3 full-time officers, and 2 part-time officers — all dedicated to keeping the BVU community safe.
Storm Lake is ranked Iowa's 13th safest city, and BVU's small-campus environment means our security team knows you by name, not just by number.
Campus Security Office — Siebens Forum 205, Student Success Suite
24/7 on duty
Office hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Jessica Garling
In an Emergency
For immediate threats to life or safety, call 911 first, then contact Campus Security. For non-emergency concerns, contact Campus Security directly at any time.
Security Services
Our Campus Security team provides a comprehensive range of services to ensure the safety and well-being of the entire BVU community.
Walking & Vehicle Patrols
Officers conduct regular walking and vehicle patrols across campus around the clock, providing a visible security presence in all areas.
24-Hour Escort Service
Need a safe walk to your car, residence hall, or anywhere on campus? Call Campus Security any time for a personal escort, day or night.
Incident Response
From criminal and non-criminal incidents to medical emergencies, our team responds swiftly and coordinates with local law enforcement as needed.
Building Security Checks
Regular checks of all campus buildings ensure doors are secured, systems are functioning, and facilities remain safe for everyone.
Fire Alarm Management
Campus Security monitors and responds to all fire alarm activations, coordinates evacuations, and works closely with the Storm Lake Fire Department.
Weather & Emergency Alerts
Stay informed during severe weather events through campus notifications and the Buena Vista County emergency site at bv911.com.
Built-In Safety Features
BVU's campus is designed with your safety in mind, from secured buildings to emergency communication systems throughout.
Residence Halls Locked 24/7
All residence halls are secured around the clock with controlled access. Only residents with authorized credentials can enter their assigned buildings.
Emergency Phones at Entrances
Every residence hall entrance is equipped with emergency phones that connect directly to Campus Security for immediate assistance.
Blue Light Emergency Phones
Blue Light emergency phones are located in parking lots D, E, G, H, and L. Press the button for an instant connection to Campus Security.
Fire Safety Systems
All campus buildings are equipped with fire alarm systems. Residence halls include smoke detectors, sprinklers, and posted evacuation routes.
Clery Act & Crime Reporting
Buena Vista University complies with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. We publish an annual security report and maintain a daily crime log available for public review at the Campus Security office.
We also offer confidential reporting options so that members of the BVU community can share concerns without fear of identification. Your safety and your privacy are both priorities.
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