Safety and Security Information
- Home
- Student Life
- Safety and Security
- Safety and Security Information
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Campus Safety and Security
St. Gertrude Hall
24 Hour Security Officer on Duty
814-886-6327
The primary responsibility of the Safety & Security Department is to provide protection for College persons and property associated with the College. Security officers are on duty 24 hours a day. If an officer is not in the office, he/she can be reached at 814-886-6327, or by contacting the Switchboard Operator at 814-886-4131. You may also use the blue-lighted phones in the parking lots or courtesy phone located inside buildings.
The Safety & Security Department is comprised of a Director, six full-time Officers and three part-time Officers. All Safety & Security employees’ maintain certification in First Aid, CPR and AED. Security Officers have a variety of training and professional experiences ranging from crisis management, medical training, self-defense techniques, hazardous chemical response and fire safety. The Safety & Security Department cooperates with federal, state and local law enforcement maintaining good working relationships, especially with the Cresson Township Police Department. Mount Aloysius College makes every reasonable effort to provide a safe environment for students, employees and visitors. Each person utilizing facilities and equipment is expected to exercise proper safety procedures and report accidents, equipment failures, equipment destruction and facility problems to the Safety & Security Department. The Safety & Security Department maintains two bulletin boards, one in St. Gertrude Hall and one in the Administration Building, with current information of crime statistics and programs offered.
VEHICLE ASSISTANCE: The Security Department has tools to open locked cars, jumper packs for dead batteries and an air tank for flat tires.
LOST & FOUND: The Lost and Found Department is located in the Safety & Security Office. Any unclaimed item will be disposed of after a period of 30 days.
ESCORTS: A Campus Escort Service is available to any visitor, student or employee. Officers will gladly provide an escort, when available, at anytime. In order to request this service, please call 814-886-6327. Escorts are offered for someone arriving or departing campus when it is dark out or during inclement weather or for anyone with a temporary or permanent disability.
ENVIRONMENTAL PREVENTION: Safety & Security works to assure safe and secure conditions in campus facilities and grounds, including monitoring that foliage is trimmed, entrances are unobstructed and campus lighting is in good working order. College community members are encouraged to make Safety & Security aware of potential safety concerns on campus.
Procedures for Reporting Crimes and Other Emergencies
The Safety & Security Department works closely with the Vice President for Student Affairs and the Director of Residence Life to provide easy access for reporting any activity violating College regulations, any crime or any emergency occurring on campus.
During regular business hours, crimes and emergencies may be reported to the Campus Safety & Security Department on-duty Officer, Residence Life Department or the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. After regular hours, (9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday) incidents should be reported to the on-duty Safety & Security personnel or, in cases involving resident student emergencies, the Residence Life staff member on duty. These same procedures shall be followed to request timely warning notifications and crime or fire statistics disclosures.
- If you are the victim of a crime.
- If you observe a criminal act.
- If you observe or are involved in a vehicle accident.
- If you or someone you know becomes injured or seriously ill.
- If you see a suspicious person in a residence hall, parking lot or other location.
- To express a safety concern; i.e. burned out exterior light, propped doors, use of candles, etc.
- To report the use, sale or possession of illegal drugs, including alcohol.
- To report the possession of any type of firearm or weapon.
- Always call the Safety & Security Department when you are unsure whether an occurrence should be reported.
Who May Call Campus Safety & Security
Any student, employee of the College or visitor may contact the Safety & Security Department to report a crime or safety concern. Certain other campus employees who have significant responsibility for student and campus activities are mandated to contact the Safety & Security Department when they learn of a crime. Departments who routinely contact the officer on duty include Residence Life, Student Activities, Athletics and faculty members.
Those not obligated to report information concerning a crime include the Director of Counseling and members of Campus Ministry who work with victims on a confidential basis. The Counseling Director and members of Campus Ministry may report criminal activity anonymously without the identity of the victim ever being known. Victims of crime may also report an incident to the Safety & Security Department without providing their identity.
The officer on duty addresses reports of crime and medical emergencies immediately. The officer will respond to your complaint and meet with you to provide whatever assistance is necessary. Officers will investigate all reported crime and work with the victim/s to identify those responsible. The investigating officer will remain in contact with the victim throughout the investigation until the case is closed. Should the responsible person be identified, the victim may choose to have the suspect arrested. The Department will work with the victim to facilitate prosecution. Mount Aloysius College will work with all victims of crime by modifying housing or class schedule upon request, when reasonably possible. The commission of any crime will not be tolerated at Mount Aloysius College.
Emergency response and evacuation procedure information is located on the orange sign in each room on-campus and the evacuation signs in the hallways. An emergency plan is located on the campus intranet at: Log into MyMAC, click on “MAC Policies - Documents,” click on ”Emergency Action Plan.” Mount Aloysius College tests the emergency plans at least annually by conducting drills. The drills range from fire evacuations to campus-wide drills of the emergency plan.
The College “Alert” text message system, email system, phone, voicemail system, internet site and portal page are used for emergency mass notification. Mass notification will be done without delay upon the confirmation of a significant emergency or a dangerous situation involving an immediate threat to the health and safety of students or employees, unless the notification at that time will compromise efforts to contain the emergency. The emergency mass notification procedures are tested by using the same procedures for campus weather delays and cancellations which happens at least once a year. Small samples of telephone numbers are used for testing from the spring through the fall.
Student Sexual Misconduct Policy
Introduction
Membership of the College community carries with it the responsibility for mutual trust and respect and adherence to the standards of conduct established by the community. Standards for student conduct at the College are set forth in the Student Handbook, College Catalog and in other policy documents. Accordingly, this statement sets forth the College’s policy on student sexual misconduct as applicable to all Mount Aloysius College students. All acts of sexual misconduct are taken very seriously by the College with possible sanctions described in detail in the “sanctions” section of the Student Handbook.Policy
Mount Aloysius College prohibits sexual misconduct by students. Actions which result in charges of sexual misconduct as defined by this policy are subject to the College’s disciplinary process and also may subject a student to civil and/or criminal liability under federal and state laws and policies, including Title IX of the federal civil rights laws.
Definition
Student sexual misconduct is defined as unwelcome acts of a sexual nature committed by a student against another person without consent including, sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and/or other verbal or physical conduct, including written communications of an intimidating, hostile or offensive nature, or action taken in retaliation for the reporting of such behavior. Student sexual misconduct may include, but is not limited to:
- unwelcome touching - either of the victim or when the victim is forced to touch another person’s body, directly or through clothing - such as patting, pinching, brushing against the body, attempted or actual kissing or fondling, and any other inappropriate and/or unwelcome touching or feeling;
- coerced sexual intercourse (e.g., rape, attempted rape, sodomy, or others sexual acts or misconduct);
- unwelcome sexual propositions, invitations, or other pressure for sex;
- implied or overt threats of a sexual nature;
- making gestures of a sexual nature;
- unwelcome sexual remarks about clothing, body, or sexual activities; and
- humor and jokes about sex that denigrate women or men in general.
Acts of physical student sexual misconduct are commonly considered to constitute a form of sexual assault when occurring without consent. To constitute lack of consent, the acts must be committed either by threat, force, intimidation, or through the use of the victim’s physical or mental inability (of which the accused was aware or should have been aware) to understand the situation, the consequences of his/her choices, or to express his/her desires. The College encourages victims to notify appropriate campus resources, including the Director of Residence Life and Campus Security. Victims of sexual assault who report alleged offenses to College officials will be advised of proper procedures for reporting sexual misconduct to legal authorities by a Campus Security or student affairs representative. It is also important for victims to preserve all physical evidence, including clothing and written communications. If requested by the alleged victim, the College representative will assist in contacting legal authorities as well as appropriate College agents who may arrange changes in a student’s residence hall assignment and class schedule to avoid contact with the alleged perpetrator. Counseling is available for students through Counseling and Disability Services. In addition, referrals may be made through Victim Services or similar agencies within the local area.
Student Sexual Harassment Policy
Mount Aloysius College prohibits sexual harassment against any member of the college community. Actions which result in charges of student sexual harassment based upon this policy are subject to the College’s disciplinary process and also may subject a student to civil and/or criminal liability under federal and state laws and policies, including Title IX of the federal civil rights laws. Complaints lodged against College employees will be handled through the Human Resources Office.
Definition of Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome acts of a sexual nature including sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and/or other verbal or physical conduct, including written communications, of an intimidating, hostile or offensive nature, or action taken in retaliation for the reporting of such behavior, when:
1. Submission to such conduct, either explicitly or implicitly, is made a term or condition of an individual’s academic status or student employment; or
2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic evaluation decisions, employment, membership in a student organization, selection for training or performance.
3. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or educational environment or substantially interferes with a student’s academic performance or work performance.
Verbal sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to:
1. sexual innuendo, comments and sexual remarks about clothing, body, or sexual activities;
2. humor and jokes about sex that denigrate women or men in general;
3. sexual propositions, invitations, or other pressure for sex;
4. implied or overt threats of a sexual nature; and
5. making gestures of a sexual nature.
Acts of physical sexual harassment may include, but are not limited to:
1. Unwelcome touching, patting, pinching, brushing against the body, attempted or actual kissing or fondling, and any other inappropriate and/or unwelcome touching or feeling;
2. Coerced sexual intercourse or other sexual acts or misconduct; and,
3. Sexual assault.
Other types of sexual harassment may include displaying sexually suggestive photographs or literature in the workplace or academic environment.
ALCOHOL AND ILLICIT DRUG POLICY
It is the policy of Mount Aloysius College to uphold all state and federal legislation regarding the possession, use, distribution or consumption of alcohol and other illegal drugs. The possession and/or use of alcoholic beverages or other illegal drugs is not permitted on campus nor is the consumption of alcohol permitted at any college sponsored activity on or off campus without prior approval by the President or designee. This applies to all students regardless of age. Programs and workshops are sponsored annually by various Student Affairs departments regarding alcohol and drug abuse prevention.
Alcohol Policy
The law of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania concerning the use of alcoholic beverages is quite specific:
“Section 6308. Purchase, Consumption, Possession, or Transportation of Intoxicating Beverages.” “A person commits a summary offense if he/she, being less than twenty-one (21) years of age, attempts to purchase, purchases, consumes, possesses or transports any alcohol, liquor or malt or brewed beverages.” The College will cooperate fully with civil authorities in the enforcement of the law. If civil authorities are involved, the College will not present disciplinary charges unless the College’s interests as an academic community are directly involved. Decisions to hold a college conduct hearing prior to, simultaneously with, or after criminal proceedings is at the discretion of the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students.
The possession and/or use of alcoholic beverages is not permitted on campus or at any off-campus college-sponsored activity regardless of age without the permission of the President of the College or designee. Any student present in the room or area where alcohol is contained will be held responsible for a violation of the College’s alcohol policy.
Alcohol Hosting Policy
An additional charge will be levied to those violators of the alcohol policy who transport alcohol to campus, distribute to other students or have alcohol in his/her contracted residence hall room or automobile. Students may be referred to the Conduct Process if there is any evidence to indicate that alcohol may be in the possession of the student. A student may be held responsible for an alcohol violation if there is reasonable cause or evidence for the College to believe alcohol has been transported, possessed, or consumed by the student.
State Legislation
Offenses: Pennsylvania law states that a person commits a summary offense if he/she, being less than 21, attempts to purchase, purchases, consumes, possesses or transports any alcohol, liquor or brewed beverages. Anybody who operates a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol and is found guilty will be charged with a misdemeanor of the second degree. Possession, manufacture and delivery of illicit drugs are, at least, a misdemeanor of the third degree. Anyone charged with a misdemeanor must appear in court.
Public Drunkenness
In Pennsylvania, it is against the law for people to appear in public when intoxicated to the extent that they endanger themselves or others. They may not annoy others as well or endanger property. If convicted of such public drunkenness - a summary offense - a fine of up to $300 and a jail sentence of up to 90 days, or both, may be imposed. The College reserves the right to pursue conduct charges in cases involving public drunkenness.
Open Container Law
In a car: No driver may legally consume any alcoholic beverage in a vehicle in operation on a Pennsylvania highway. This is a summary offense. On the streets: In Pennsylvania, there is no state law to prohibit open containers of alcohol in public. However, many local governments have enacted such ordinances.
Pennsylvania Lowered DUI Blood Alcohol Level
Act 24 of 2003, Driving after Imbibing Alcohol or Using Drugs, became effective September 30, 2003. The Act decreased the blood alcohol level for drivers over 21 years of age from .10% to .08%. Drivers with a BAC of .08% and above may be charged. Drivers under the age of 21 are charged if their BAC is .02% or above. Fines and Penalties have also changed. For more information use the following intranet address: www.dmv.state.pa.us/legislation/dui.shtml
Drug Policy
Mount Aloysius College is a drug-free campus and students are prohibited from using illegal drugs and/or having detectible levels of drugs in their system. This policy applies to College-sponsored events and activities on-campus as well as off-site clinical or internship settings. Many academic programs on campus require students to undergo random drug screenings prior to entering clinical/field experience sites. Students are expected to test negative on their drug screen to remain in compliance with College policy. College policy states “the use of illegal drugs and/or having detectible levels in the system is prohibited;” therefore, a positive drug test will result in dismissal from the academic program for one year.
If a student is attending an off-site educational experience (including, but not limited to: clinicals, practicum, internships, and externships) and tests positive on a drug screening, the student will receive a failing grade of F for the course associated with that educational experience. In addition, the student will be prohibited from 7continuing in that program and may not take courses in that major. A student may continue to participate in courses outside the major for the semester in which he/she tested positive.
In order to continue taking courses outside the major beyond the semester in which the student tested positive, the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students must receive verification that the student completed a certified drug treatment program prior to the start of the next semester’s classes and show proof of a negative drug test. After one year, a student may reapply for admission to his/her original program or another health-related program following the guidelines specified by the program in which they are interested in participating.
Students who participate in a urine drug screen that results in an undetermined or diluted result may be required, at the College’s discretion, to participate in an additional screening procedure, including but not limited to blood, hair, or saliva sampling. The student may be responsible for all retesting costs.
Students who have a positive test have an opportunity to appeal the test within three working days of being notified of the test results. Appeals should be in writing, should list the reason for appeal as noted below, and be sent to the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students for investigation in conjunction with the agency conducting the screenings.
Appeals will only be considered by the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students and the physician responsible for coordinating the screening process under the following circumstances:
1. Standard procedures for collecting urine drug screens were not followed according to institutional guidelines.
2. Legally prescribed drugs (prescribed within the past year) resulted in the drug screening showing a false positive.
A student may not appeal a positive urine drug screen result on the basis that the sanction includes dismissal from the program.
Disciplinary Sanctions
The use or possession of alcohol or the discovery of any student using, possessing or distributing illicit drugs will be considered an infraction. Disciplinary action will be based on the seriousness of the offense, individual circumstances and the best interests of the College community. Possible sanctions include conduct warnings, required counseling sessions, fines or service to the College, probation, suspension and dismissal.
Counseling and Treatment
Personal concerns of any type may be discussed confidentially with the College counselor located in St. Joseph Hall. Students may arrange to talk to the counselor or take advantage of the office’s referral service to outside agencies. Local outside agencies include:
Johnstown Area:
Crisis Intervention Hotline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-800-273-7310
Conemaugh Health Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(814) 534-9000
Altoona Area:
Altoona Regional Health System Services
Behavioral Health Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(814) 946-2279
Primary Health Network - Mental Health Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(814) 942-5000
Toll Free Hotline Help And Information
. . . . . . . . . . .1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357) 1-800-342-AIDS (1-800-342-2437)
National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-800-729-6686
Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention
Prevention resources and information are available in Student Health and Counseling Services. A variety of programs and educational activities are offered annually targeted to both alcohol and other drug prevention and to promote the adoption of a wellness lifestyle. Specifically, guest speakers, alternative activities, and Safe Spring break activities, along with behavioral counseling interventions are offered to prevent drug and alcohol use.
The Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, requires all institutions of higher education to certify that it has implemented a drug and alcohol awareness program for students and employees. Toward that end, each institution is to distribute annually to its students and employees a description of its program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol. Compliance is required in order to remain eligible for federal financial assistance.
Possible Effects of Substance Abuse
SUBSTANCE POSSIBLE EFFECTS
Alcohol Toxic Psychosis, Neurological and Liver Damage, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Marijuana Bronchitis, Conjunctivitis, Possible Birth Defects Amphetamines Loss of Appetite, Delusions, Hallucinations, Toxic Psychosis
Nonprescription Stimulants Hypertension, Stroke, Heart Problems Cocaine Loss of Appetite, Depression, Convulsions, Nasal Passage Injury, Heart Attack, Stroke, Seizure
Cocaine Free Base Weight Loss, Depression, Hypertension, Hallucinations, Psychosis, Chronic Cough
Barbiturates Severe Withdrawal Symptoms, Possible Convulsions, Toxic Psychosis
Methaqualone Coma, Convulsions
Heroin Addiction, Constipation, Loss of Appetite
Analog of Synthetic Narcotics Addiction, MPTP Induced, Parkinsonism
Morphine Addiction, Constipation, Loss of Appetite
Codeine Addiction, Constipation, Loss of Appetite
Oxycodone Addiction, Constipation, Loss of Appetite
All drugs, including alcohol, can produce serious side effects. This is true of even prescription or other legal drugs when used as prescribed, but their risks are weighed against their benefits by medical professionals in the therapeutic context. Prescription drugs used without a prescription and medical supervision can pose a serious threat to the well-being of the user. Because the drugs listed below impair the mind, they increase likelihood of accidents and violent behavior. The many health risks associated with alcohol use are well documented. Small amounts may affect judgement and coordination, impairing performance of even simple routine tasks. The repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence, with multiple physical, emotional, and psychological complications. Effects of the prolonged use of alcohol may include damage to the central nervous system, malnutrition and anemia, damage to the heart, lungs, and liver, mental disorder and death.
Health risks associated with the seven categories of illicit drugs may include:
1. Marijuana: impaired memory, lung and pulmonary damage, chronic emphysema and cancer.
2. Stimulants: paranoia, hallucinations, dizziness, headaches, abdominal cramps, malnutrition, overstimulation of the central nervous system, seizures, stroke, heart failure and death.
3. Depressants: initial effects similar to alcohol inebriation, slowed reflexes, unstable mood, loss of memory, coma and death.
4. Hallucinogens: distortion of reality, including illusions and hallucinations, injury of self or others, convulsions, brain damage, coma and death.
5. Opiates (narcotics): skin abscesses, respiratory damage, malnutrition, pneumonia and hepatitis, heart disease, diabetes, coma and death.
6. Inhalants: fatigue, weight loss, permanent damage to the nervous system, hepatitis and organ failure.
7. Designer drugs: psychosis, instant paralysis and brain damage and death. In addition, the date-rape drugs Rohypnol and GHB may cause a weakened or unconscious state often followed by amnesia. Drugs and alcohol abuse can reduce the body’s resistance to infections and bring malnutrition, organ damage, and mental illness. Overdoses of almost all these substances can cause psychosis, convulsions, coma and death.
Notification of Missing Students
If a member of the Mount Aloysius College community has reason to believe that a student who resides in on-campus housing is missing, he or she should immediately notify the Safety & Security Department at (814) 886-6327. The on-duty Officer will initiate an investigation. After investigating the missing person report, should it be determined that the student is missing, MAC will notify Cresson Township Police and the student’s emergency contact.
Safety & Security works to assure safe and secure conditions in campus facilities and grounds, including monitoring that foliage are trimmed, entrances are unobstructed and campus lighting is in good working order. College community members are encouraged to make Safety & Security aware of potential safety concerns on campus. In addition to card access, cameras are recording the entrance activity in Ihmsen, Misciagna and McAuley Halls. Safety & Security Officers and/or Residence Life staff patrol all residences at least twice a night.
The College operates five residence halls on campus: Ihmsen Hall, St. Gertrude Hall, St. Joseph Hall, Misciagna Hall and McAuley Hall. Most rooms are double and/or triple occupancy. However, single rooms are sometimes available for an additional fee. All of the residence halls have lounge areas with color televisions, study rooms and are part of the campus’s wireless network.
Ihmsen Hall
Ihmsen Hall accommodates men and women in separate sections of the building and houses predominately first year students. Each room in Ihmsen Hall contains a sink, bed, dresser, desk, chair and a mirror. Microwave ovens and sinks are located on each floor of Ihmsen Hall. An electric proximity lock allows access by residents at two doors.
St. Joseph Hall
St. Joseph Hall is an all women’s residence hall for first year women. The rooms are furnished similarly to Ihmsen Hall. Rooms are doubles and triples with a community bathroom. Residents access this hall by using a high security key and access code.
Misciagna Hall
Misciagna Hall offers suite-style living for students. Each suite includes two double-occupancy bedrooms with a bed, dresser, desk, chair and closet for each resident a living room/kitchen area with a microwave, refrigerator, sink, cupboard space, closet space, couch, arm chairs, TV stand (students must provide own TV), a table and chairs and a bathroom/vanity space. Misciagna Hall is air conditioned and houses predominantly upper class students. An electric proximity lock allows access by residents of this dorm.
McAuley Hall
McAuley Hall is designated as a sophomore living community and offers pairs of double rooms connected by a pass through sink area with separate rooms for the lavatory and shower. There are also a limited number of designated single rooms in the building. McAuley Hall is air-conditioned, offers study rooms and lounge areas on each floor in addition to a large multi-purpose room. An electric proximity lock allows access by residents of this dorm.
St. Gertrude Hall
St. Gertrude Hall is an all women’s residence hall. Rooms are primarily single and furnished with a bed, desk, dresser, chairs and a share a community bathroom. Residents access this hall by using a high security key and access code.
The College makes every reasonable effort, through the cooperation of all departments, to create an environment that is both safe and secure. Although we cannot guarantee safety, we believe that through cooperative efforts and appropriate education, we can strive toward that end. Mount Aloysius offers programs throughout the year designed to inform students about personal and campus safety procedures. Students are initially informed of these procedures during orientation sessions. Throughout the year, programming and workshops sponsored by various Student Affairs departments include information regarding safety issues, alcohol and drug abuse prevention, sexual misconduct awareness and prevention on-campus for all students. Specific programs and activities include SAFE personal safety training for women, Take Back the Night, alcohol and drug prevention speakers, relationship and responsibility week, live fire extinguisher training and non-alcoholic activities such as Friday Night Live. The Student Handbook and email on safety and security at Mount Aloysius are distributed yearly to all students.
In cases of criminal activity considered a threat to others, the local police will be contacted immediately for assistance and warnings will be distributed via student email and posted on bulletin boards as soon as possible after occurrence of the threat, in order for all to take the necessary precautions. The College complies with federal, state and local laws including those which regulate the possession, use/sale of alcoholic beverages and controlled substances. The College cooperates with local and state police in relation to all crimes. Firearms, weapons and ammunition are prohibited at Mount Aloysius College.
College and University Security Information Act
The Jeanne Clery Act
Campus Policies
The information provided is made available to students, employees amd potential members of the MAC community in accordance with the Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act (Public Law 101-542), now known as the Jeanne Clery Act and the Pennsylvania Act 1988-73 College and University Security Information Act. The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (The Clery Act) requires Mount Aloysius College to provide students and employees with information on its security policies and procedures and specific statistics for certain criminal incidents, arrests and disciplinary referrals and to make the information and statistics available to prospective students and employees upon request. It is important to note that the crime classifications for which colleges and universities must provide statistics differ under state and federal law. Statistics for certain crime classifications might appear to be different. For example, the federal statistics for motor vehicle theft differ from the state statistics for the same category because the federal classification includes attempted motor vehicle thefts, while state law requires institutions to separately report attempted motor vehicle thefts.
The crime statistics reported under the Jeanne Clery Act include the following: Criminal homicide, murder and negligent manslaughter. sex offenses of forcible rape, sodomy, sexual assault with an object, fondling, non forcible incest and statutory rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft and arson.
Hate Crimes
The law requires the release of statistics by category of prejudice concerning the occurrence of hate crimes in the crime classifications listed in the preceding section and for other crimes involving bodily injury to any person in which the victim is selected because of the actual or perceived race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or disability of the victim.
In August of 2008 HEOA S 488, 20 U.S.C. S 1092 (f) (1) F (ii) modified the above hate crimes to include the following additional crimes under the hate crime category: Larceny Theft: The unlawful taking, carrying, leading, or riding away of property from the possession or constructive possession of another.
Threats: Intimidation (Includes Stalking) To unlawfully place another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm through the use of threatening words and/or other conduct, but without displaying a weapon or subjecting the victim to actual physical attack.
Vandalism: To willfully or maliciously destroy, damage, deface, or otherwise injure real or personal property without the consent of the owner or the person having custody or control of it.
Simple Assault: An unlawful physical attack by one person upon another where neither the offender displays a weapon, nor the victim suffers obvious severe or aggrieved bodily injury involving apparent broken bones, loss of teeth, possible internal injury, severe laceration, or loss of consciousness.
Mount Aloysius College - Clery Act Statistics
Offenses Report for the year January - December
Daily Crime and Fire Log The Mount Aloysius College Safety & Security Department maintains a combined Daily Crime and Fire Log of all incidents reported to the Department. This includes all incidents that occur on campus.
The Daily Crime and Fire Log includes the violation type, date and time of occurrence, and general location of each reported incident type, as well as the status of the incident, if this information is known. The Safety & Security Department posts specific incidents in the Daily Crime and Fire Log within two (2) business days of receiving a report of an incident and reserves the right to exclude reports from the log in certain circumstances as permitted by law.
The Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) requires two (2) new safety related requirements of institutions that participate in federal student financial aid programs which follow:
1. Fire Log: Institutions must keep a fire log that states the nature of the fire, date, time, and general location of each fire in on-campus student housing facilities. Mount Aloysius College complies with this rule by including all fire-related incidents in the Daily Crime and Fire Log. To view the daily crime and firerelated incidents log visit the Safety & Security Department in Saint Gertrude Hall #21. Requests for more information must be directed, in writing, to the Director of Safety & Security. Information will be made available within two (2) business days of a request for public inspection.
2. Annual Fire Safety Report: Institutions with on-campus student housing facilities must publish annually a fire safety report that provides information on campus fire safety practices and standards. Mount Aloysius College complies with this regulation by including all fire-related incidents at on-campus student housing facilities as part of the Annual Security & Fire Safety Report. Information contained in this annual fire safety report includes: number and cause of fires at all on-campus student housing facilities; number of fire-related deaths; related injuries; value of fire-related property damage; information on evacuation procedures; fire safety education and training programs; fire safety systems in each student housing facility; number of regular mandatory supervised fire drills; and policies on portable electrical appliance, smoking and open flames. The Annual Security & Fire Safety Report must include three (3) years of data.* *Revisions to the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) for Fire Safety and reporting took effect in 2010. Statistics beginning for the year 2009 are available at www.mtaloy.edu/about_mac/consumer-info/.
If a fire occurs in any building, community members should immediately activate the building fire alarm system by use of a pull station. If possible, also notify Safety & Security by dialing 814-886-6327 to provide detailed information on exact location of fire and if anyone is injured or trapped. The campus fire alarm systems alert community members of potential hazards. MAC community members are required to heed an activated fire alarm system, and evacuate a building immediately. Use the 17nearest available exit to evacuate the building. MAC community members should familiarize themselves with the exits in each building.
When a fire alarm is activated, the elevators in most buildings will automatically recall to a pre-designated fire safe floor. Occupants should use the stairs to evacuate the building. If you are caught in the elevator, push the emergency phone button. The emergency phones in elevators on campus ring to the on-duty Safety & Security Officer.
Fire Protection Equipment/Systems
All occupied buildings on campus are equipped with automatic fire detection and alarm systems which are monitored by Emergency 24 alarm monitoring company, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The Department of Residence Life performs residential inspections at mid-year, usually during the winter break. Residents are notified beforehand of the inspection process. The inspections are conducted to identify safety violations as well as conditions which may be detrimental to the health or well being of the wider residential community.
The inspections include a visual examination of electrical cords, sprinkler heads, smoke detectors and other life safety systems. In addition, each room is examined for the presence of prohibited items such as candles, halogen lamps, open coiled appliances, pets, etc. Rooms are also examined for evidence of prohibited activity such as smoking in the room, removal of door closers, unauthorized door locking or alarm mechanisms, removal of security screens or other equipment, tampering with life safety equipment, etc. This inspection also includes a general assessment of cleanliness of the room, including food and waste storage.
Conditions warranting follow up are reported by the Residence Life staff to Conduct Affairs. Conduct Affairs will communicate with those residents, apply sanctions which can range from fines to expulsion from housing and shall document such follow up. The resident’s signature on the Housing Services Agreement, required in order to take occupancy, signifies their acceptance of and responsibility for abiding by residential and College policies as provided through all printed publications, web sites, email and other vehicles. Per the agreement, College personnel may enter any room at any time for the purposes of inspection, establishment of order, maintenance, extermination, inventory correction, cleaning, or in case of emergency or other reasonable purposes.
Fire: Rapid oxidation of combustible material accompanied by heat, light and smoke of combustible material, which is found outside of its normal appliance, whether or not it is extinguished prior to arrival of emergency.
Fire-related Deaths: Number of persons who were fatalities because of a fire incident, including death resulting from a natural or accidental cause while involved in fire control, attempting a rescue, or persons escaping from the fire scene (an individual who dies within one (1) year of injuries sustained as a result of a fire).
Fire-related Injuries: Number of persons receiving injuries from fire-related incidents, including an injury from a natural or accidental cause who received medical treatment at a local medical facility. This includes first responders attempting to control the fire, attempting a rescue, or persons escaping from the fire scene. Persons may include students, faculty, staff, visitors, firefighters or any other individuals. Estimated U.S. Dollar Loss Related to Fire Incidents: Estimated total U.S. dollar loss of both contents and structure or property destroyed because of a fire incident, not loss of business.
Evacuation Procedures Posted: When a fire alarm is activated, evacuation is mandatory. DO NOT use elevators; evacuate the building using the nearest available exit and proceed to the area of refuge to begin an accountability and assessment process.
Fire Alarms Monitored by Emergency 24: Fire alarms are monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year by Emergency 24 Dispatchers.
Fire Safety Training Programs Delivered: Number of training programs delivered by Fire and Emergency Services or other responsible persons of authority within the College.
Buildings Equipped with Fire Alarm Systems and Smoke Detectors: Buildings that have functional fire alarm systems and smoke detectors installed. Please note, all residence halls are equipped with a functional fire alarm system and smoke detectors. Buildings Protected with Automatic Sprinkler System Throughout: Indicates an automatic sprinkler system protects all areas of a building.
Fire Drills: The number of supervised scheduled drills or actual events at campus residence halls and other campus buildings that are facilitated and certified by the Safety & Security Department. Various drills are conducted throughout the year to familiarize students and employees with emergency procedures and individual roles. Each year the Safety & Security Department facilitates at least one drill per semesters targeting all residential halls. All other buildings undergo at least one drill each year. 19Fire Policies for On-Campus Student Housing Facilities
1. Portable Electrical Appliances: Extreme caution must be exercised in the use of electrical appliances. We strongly recommend the use of surge protectors(s). All appliances must have the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) approval. Hot plates, sunlamps, space heaters, air conditioners, electric ovens, toasters, toaster ovens, microwaves in Ihmsen, and any other appliances with exposed heating elements are prohibited. Irons and ironing boards are provided in the laundry rooms of each building. Routine health and safety inspections will occur at least once a semester.
Caution should be taken to prevent fire hazards resulting from excessive use of appliances and over-dependence on power strips and extension cords.
Lamps: A Special Safety Advisory - The use of halogen lamps is prohibited.
- Carefully read all safety instructions and warnings that accompany any lamp.
- Never use bulbs of a higher wattage or of a different style than is recommended by the manufacturer’s instruction.
- Never remove or discard a bulb that is hot to the touch; don’t try to operate a lamp that has damaged or missing parts.
- Do not place lamps near clothing, draperies, or bedding, as incidental contact with the lamp bulb could ignite the material. Keeps lamps away from windows, bunk beds and closets.
- NEVER place materials such as towels or clothing on top of lamps.
- Avoid placing lamps in location where they may be knocked over.
- Always remember to turn off or unplug any lamp when changing bulbs or when leaving your room/apartment.
- Taking proper precautions and guard against potential hazards posed by lamps will help ensure community safety.
2. Smoking: Smoking and Tobacco Policy
1. The use of tobacco and tobacco related products is prohibited in all campus facilities including residence hall facilities in order to lessen fire and health related hazards. The use of hookahs and other smoking paraphernalia, is prohibited.
2. Tobacco products are not sold on campus.
3. Smoking is not permitted in and around all campus athletic fields.
4. Smoking by students and employees outside the campus buildings is permitted only in the following areas without exception:
- Academic Hall - second floor entrance
- Alumni Hall - front door entrance only when building is in use
- Chapel Building - archway entrance on west side
- Cosgrave Student Center - upper entrance near seating area
- Ihmsen Hall - breezeway
- Library Building- main entrance
- Main Building - basement entrance near Room 4
- Physical Fitness Center (Gym) - main entrance
- Pierce Hall/McAuley Hall - lower level entrance of Pierce
- St. Joseph Hall - basement entrance near Room 4
3. Open Flames: Fire or smoke producing articles, such as Bunsen burners, portable stoves, kerosene lamps, cut trees, incense and candles are prohibited in residence halls. Possession of hibachis, barbecue grills, smokers, potpourri burning units or other fire-starting devices/ substances is prohibited in residences, as is their use in residential areas or adjacent outdoor space without staff supervision. Violators are subject to conduct action and possible criminal prosecution.
MAC ANNUAL FIRE REPORT FOR STUDENT HOUSING
Ihmsen Hall has an addressable fire detection system throughout the building with pull stations, smoke and heat detectors.
St. Joseph Hall and St Gertrude Hall have an addressable fire detection system throughout the building with pull stations, smoke and heat detectors. Misciagna Hall has an addressable fire detection system throughout the building with pull stations, smoke and heat detectors. A water charged sprinkler system is in place throughout the building.
McAuley Hall has an addressable fire detection system throughout the building with pull stations, smoke and heat detectors. A water charged sprinkler system is in place throughout the building.
Students residing in The Mount Aloysius College residence halls are provided with comprehensive training and information that will enable them to prevent, escape, report and/or handle any fire emergency within the residence halls.
Students receive the majority of their training from their Residence Assistants at the start of each semester. This training is received at mandatory floor meetings, scheduled during the first week of each semester.
Students are provided with information regarding their floor, and their building as well as fire safety and MAC policies and procedures. Students are shown the location of pull stations, fire safety equipment (fire extinguishers and smoke alarms) and evacuation routes from the building.
The same information is provided to new students who move in during the semester.
Immediately upon moving into a hall, every student should become familiar with fire exit routes and locations of fire extinguishers. When a fire alarm sounds, all persons must immediately evacuate the building, exiting by the most direct safe route. Occupants must evacuate to points sufficient to ensure their personal safety. All residents must report to their designated evacuation points identified by their Resident Assistant. All occupants must evacuate in a timely manner.
Students are trained in the following fire evacuation procedures:
Before the Fire
- Know the location of all pull stations on your floor.
- Know the location of all fire extinguishers on your floor.
- Know alternate exits, in the event that one is blocked.
On Discovering a Fire
- Find nearest pull station, and activate the alarm.
- Shut all doors and windows in the vicinity of the fire.
- If the fire is small, use fire extinguishers to put it out.
- Exit by nearest safe stairway. Do not use the elevators. Do not run. 22On Hearing the Alarm
- If there is smoke in the room, keep low to the floor.
- Try to exit the room. Feel the door with the back of your hand. If it is hot, do not open the door.
- If the door is not hot, brace yourself against the door and crack it open. If there is heat or heavy smoke, close the door and stay in your room.
- Don’t panic.
- Seal up the cracks under the door with wet sheets, or towels. If there is smoke in the room, crack the windows at the bottom and at the top, if possible, to allow for ventilation.
- Hang a sheet or towel from the window to announce that you are in your room. Call the Safety & Security Department at (814) 886-6327. Be sure to give your room number and your location in the room.
- If you can exit the room, put on shoes (and if necessary a coat). If smoke is evident, get a wet towel to cover your face.
- Close all doors as you exit.
- If while exiting the building you are blocked by fire, go to the safest fire free area, or stairwell. If a phone is available call Safety & Security at (814) 886-6327, or find a window and signal that you are still in the building.
In order to test the fire alarm system and observe student and staff behavior, the Safety & Security Department conducts fire evacuation drills. These drills are not publicized in advance. Students are held accountable for their behavior during these drills. Student behavioral issues are reported to Student Affairs.
Fire evacuation drills are scheduled twice per year, once per semester. Drills are typically scheduled within a few weeks of the beginning of the semester.
Fire alarm and facilities deficiencies are reported to the Physical Plant Office.
Each year, Residence Assistants schedule activities in association with Safety & Security, such as live fire extinguisher training and informational sessions.
Staff Responsibilities and Procedures
All Residence Life Staff are trained annually in fire safety protocols and procedures by the Safety & Security Department.
Residence Directors are responsible for the following:
- Coordinating orientation and training in fire safety for resident assistants,
- Ensuring the evacuation plans are in place in each residential building,
- Reporting promptly to the Safety & Security Department any defective exit lights, alarm boxes, fire extinguishers and inoperable fire doors,
- Reporting promptly to the Safety & Security Department any other conditions that may create a fire hazard or unsafe condition which might interfere with the evacuation of occupants.
The Office of Student Conduct Affairs within the Student Affairs Division is responsible for handling the disciplinary action for students who do not comply with or violate fire safety regulations.
Fire safety training is included in the comprehensive Resident Assistance (RA) Training Program, which occur in the month of August. This training includes general information, such as proper notification procedures, what to do in the event of a fire, how to use a fire extinguisher and other information. RA training also includes a building specific training segment, prepared by the Director of Safety & Security that provides RAs with detailed information about that hall.
Residence Assistants are responsible for the following:
- Informing their students of the policies and procedures regarding fire safety,
- Observing that their students comply with all fire safety regulations and documenting any resident who violates or does not comply with those safety regulations,
- Reporting any damaged, missing or stolen equipment to their director for repair or replacement,
- Conducting health and safety inspections to ensure that students are complying with all health and fire safety regulations as documented in the residence contract and/or the Student Handbook.
Emergency Notification Procedures
In the event of a fire, the following notification procedures should be followed:
1. Resident or RA pulls fire alarm, notifies Safety & Security,
2. The fire department is notified by the alarm company,
3. RA on Duty notifies on-call professional staff,
4. Professional staff member contacts administration.
When a fire is reported, the resident or staff member who reports the fire should first pull the internal fire alarm. All internal alarm systems are connected via dedicated telephone lines to an alarm monitoring company. When an alarm is sounded the monitoring company notifies Cambria Count 9-1-1 to dispatch the Cresson Volunteer Fire Department, and notifies Mount Aloysius Safety & Security. The Safety & Security Officer responds and contacts the alarm monitoring company if it is a false alarm to have the fire department cancelled. The Officer contacts Cambria 9-1-1 if the alarm is not false and provides updated information for the responding fire units. Safety & Security has control over the emergency situation until the Cresson Volunteer Fire Department arrives and takes direct control over the situation. The RA on Duty should notify the on-call professional staff member for response. The Professional staff member is responsible for notifying Administration. The Safety & Security Officer is responsible for notifying the Director of Safety & Security.
Additional Evacuation Procedures for Residents with Disabilities
In all emergencies, after an evacuation has been ordered, the following applies:
- Check on people with special needs during an evacuation. A “buddy system,” where people with disabilities arrange for volunteers (RAs/neighbors/ classmates) to alert them and assist them in an emergency, is a good method.
- Always ASK someone with a disability how you can help BEFORE attempting any rescue technique or giving assistance. Ask how he or she can best be assisted or moved, and whether there are any special considerations or items that need to come with the person.
- Evacuate or assist people with disabilities to get to the nearest stairwell if possible.
- DO NOT use elevators, unless directed to do so by security, police or fire personnel. If the evacuation has been ordered due to a fire, elevators could fail during a fire. Security, police or fire personnel will know if the elevators can be used.
- If the situation is life threatening, call Safety and Security at 814-886-6327 or 9-1-1.
- Attempt a rescue evacuation ONLY if you have had rescue training or the person is in immediate danger and cannot wait for professional assistance.
Aiding Persons with Specific Disabilities in Emergency Situations
Blindness or Visual Impairment
Give verbal instructions to advise about safest route or direction using compass directions, estimated distances, and directional landmarks.
DO NOT grasp a visually impaired person’s arm. Ask if he or she would like to hold onto your arm as you exit, especially if there is debris or a crowd.
Give other verbal instructions or information (i.e., move to the stairwell, elevators cannot be used, etc.).
Deafness or Hearing Loss
Get the attention of a person with a hearing disability by touch and eye contact. Clearly state the problem. Gestures and pointing are helpful, but be prepared to write a brief statement if the person does not seem to understand.
Offer visual instructions to advise of safest route or direction by pointing toward stairwell exits or evacuation maps.
Mobility Impairment
It may be necessary to help clear the exit route of debris (if possible) so that the person with a disability can exit to a safer area.
If people with mobility impairments cannot exit, they should move to a safer area such as the nearest stairwell. If that is not possible, they should move to an office or other room with the door shut which is a good distance from the hazard.
Notify security, police or fire personnel immediately about any people remaining in the building and their locations.
Security, police or fire personnel will decide whether people are safe where they are, and will evacuate them as necessary. They may determine that it is safe to override the general rule against using elevators.
If people are in immediate danger and cannot be moved to a safer area to wait for assistance, it may be necessary to evacuate them using an evacuation chair or a carry technique.
ID cards are available at the Safety & Security Department located in St. Gertrude Hall, Room 21 or by calling the Safety & Security Office at 814-886-6327.
The cards are valid for the entire time you are a student.
Initial ID cards are free and replacement cards are available for $25.00. Vehicle Information
All students’ must obtain a parking permit from Safety & Security. Stop by the Safety & Security Department located in St. Gertrude Hall, Room 21 to obtain your parking permit.
Below is listed what you will need to know and bring with you:
- Vehicle Registration card
- $25.00
On-campus parking is available to Mount Aloysius students. However, these spaces are only available if everyone cooperates and abides by the regulations set forth in the parking program.
All students may only use parking lots 6, 7, 8, and 13 between 6:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. Specific areas assigned to resident students for overnight parking are enforced 11:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. The campus map further identifies the designated student parking areas. Lot 14 may be used by all students only during daylight hours. No parking is permitted in Lot 14 between dusk and dawn.
The Safety & Security Office is authorized to tow a vehicle at the owner’s expense. Anyone who uses their vehicle to transport contraband onto campus also risks losing the privilege of having a vehicle on campus. Fire Department regulations do not permit parking in any fire lane or drive lane on-campus.
A vehicle parked on-campus is at the risk of the owner. Mount Aloysius College assumes no responsibility for damages, thefts, accidents, or other incidents involving vehicles. All vehicles must be registered by the end of the first week of each academic semester. Vehicles can be registered at the Security Office during orientation or thereafter. The vehicle registration card or a copy of the card must be shown to the officer for each vehicle when registering. A fee of $25 is payable at the time of registration. Replacement cost of a permit is $5. Inquire at the Safety & Security Department for registering multiple vehicles.
The Safety & Security Department will issue special one-day permits in emergency situations. Safety & Security must be notified immediately, either in person or by phone relating the description, location and license plate of the unregistered vehicle. 26Students with special needs regarding parking must contact the Director of Counseling Services to discuss their specific circumstances.
- Students (non-resident) wishing to leave a vehicle on campus overnight must fill out an overnight request form at the Safety & Security Department to avoid a ticket.
- Students are not permitted to leave disabled vehicles on campus property.
- Students are not permitted to leave vehicles on campus over break periods.
- Unattended vehicles left on-campus without prior authorization from Safety & Security will be considered abandoned and will be towed at the owner’s expense.
- Residents will be assigned parking areas at the beginning of each semester. They will be given parking instructions during their mandatory residence hall meeting at the beginning of the semester.
All violations will be assigned points as outlined in the table below:
VIOLATION COST POINTS
No College Permit $30.00 2
Improper Permit Display $30.00 2
Fire Lane $30.00 2
Sidewalk/Lawn $30.00 2
Unauthorized Area $30.00 2
Other Violation $30.00 2
Careless Diving $30.00 3
Handicapped Space $50.00 3
Snow Removal $30.00 4
All parking fines are $30 except for handicap parking violations which are $50. Unpaid fines may be automatically applied to your college bill and a hold may be placed on your account. If a student accumulates 10 or more points due to parking illegally, their parking privileges will be revoked for a specified period of no less than one semester or the equivalent time in weeks (15). Additional parking offenses incurred while parking privileges have been revoked will result in the student losing parking privileges for the remainder of the academic year. All points are deleted at the end of each academic year, however any current sanctions may span academic years. The ticket may be appealed to the Parking Appeal Board. The appeal form must be submitted in writing to the Security Department within five days after the date of violation. The appeal form may be obtained on the MAC portal page or at the Safety& Security department.
Fines can only be paid in the Controller’s Office during regular business hours.
Traffic Violation Appeal Process
Appeals to parking violations are heard by The Parking Appeal Board, which is comprised of two students and a faculty or staff member. Review Board hearings will be held as needed during each semester. Members of the College community are provided an opportunity to explain circumstances, in writing, regarding the issued ticket. Results of the hearing will be documented and forwarded via e-mail to the student or employee originally requesting the appeal. The decision of The Parking Appeal Board is final.
No appeals will be reviewed if filed with the Safety & Security Department after five (5) business days from the date of violation. Questions concerning procedures or interpretations of parking rules and regulations should be referred to the Director of Security located in St. Gertrude Hall, Room 22. You may also call 814-886-6421 or email wtrexler@mtaloy.edu
Weather Related Cancellations and Delays
The “Campus Alert” text message system, email system, voicemail system, internet site and portal page are used for any emergency mass notifications as needed. There are certain times when classes may be cancelled or delayed due to inclement weather. Please sign up for MAC text message alerts or check the college website, call the switchboard at (814) 886-4131, or tune in the local radio and television stations to determine if a cancellation or delay has taken place.
- Living At MAC
- Safety and Security
- Health Services
- The Ann Harris Smith Little People's Place
- Homecoming & Family Weekend
- Commencement
- Counseling and Disability Services
- Student Handbook 2012
- Arts & Entertainment
- Campus Ministry
- Community Service
- Bookstore
- Pennsylvania Voter Registration Information
- Clubs And Organizations
- Cosgrave Student Center
- Orientation
- Forms
Mount Aloysius College
7373 Admiral Peary Highway, Cresson, PA 16630-1999
Toll Free: 888.823.2220 | P: 814.886.4131
