Staying Safe on Campus

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Fire

If you hear the fire alarm on campus:

  • Stop what you’re doing
  • Leave the building – walk quickly, don’t run, to the nearest fire assembly point
  • Do NOT return for valuables
  • Do NOT go back inside until told it’s safe to do so by i.e. Fire Service, UWS Security or University Staff

If you discover a fire:

  • Do NOT try to fight it
  • Leave the room
  • Close the door to contain the fire
  • Operate the nearest Break Glass call point to evacuate the building (security staff will call the fire brigade)
  • Leave the building – walk quickly, don’t run, to the nearest fire assembly point
  • Do NOT return  for valuables
  • Do NOT go back inside until told it’s safe to do so by i.e. Fire Service, UWS Security or University Staff

First aid

There are trained first aiders on all our campuses. If you need first aid for yourself or someone else, call 0141 848 3333. For the London campus, visit the UWS reception.

Give full details of where you are, including your campus, what the injury is and how serious it is. A first aider will come to you.

Keep calm and keep the injured person calm. Don’t let them leave until seen by the first aider. If you think that an ambulance is needed, ask for one when you request first aid.

The SafeZone App can be used to summon a first aider. This app is designed to allow you to stay safe on and off the campus and can be used for the following: 

  • First Aid - when you need medical assistance
  • Help - non-emergency assistance
  • Emergency - if you feel threatened or need urgent assistance
  • Wellbeing - reach out for support

You can find out more about the App through our dedicated SafeZone App webpage.

Download the App, available for both iOS (App Store) and Android (Google Play):

SafeZone App - Android - Google Play

Safezone App - iOS - App Store for iPhone

Smoking

All the campuses are no smoking areas. No one is allowed to smoke anywhere within the campuses, including buildings, grounds and vehicles.

This also applies to e-cigarettes and other electronic nicotine dispensing systems.

The smoking policy is enforced by security and other staff. It’s supported by the university code of discipline for students.

Stay safe out and about

  • Go out with a group of friends, and make sure you have a plan for getting home
  • Don’t leave your drinks unattended
  • Ensure your mobile phone has enough charge to last the night
  • Use only licensed taxis, with the proper signage
  • Be aware of how much you’re drinking – be sure you remain able to enjoy yourself without being unable to look after yourself
  • Keep an emergency £10 for unexpected events – for example, if you lose your purse/wallet

Stay safe at home

  • Make sure your home is safe and secure, and that doors and windows are lockable
  • Make sure doors and windows will open easily if needed, and plan an escape route in case of fire
  • Check your home has the necessary gas safety or electrical checks
  • Make sure you have a working smoke alarm, and check it weekly. If you have a gas boiler, get a carbon monoxide detector too.

Reporting an accident

It’s important to record any accident in the university or in university accommodation or activities such as field trips.

Students should report incidents through their lecturer(s). Your lecturer(s) will then report it via the university’s Awaken System.  

Last updated: 30/06/2026