DPS Services

Performing directed and random patrols on campus
In an attempt to reduce fear/apprehension of crime on campus, Safety and Security Officers will provide a visible presence to help promote an atmosphere of safety for students, faculty/staff and all visitors.

Answering calls for service
DPS Officers will respond to calls for service on campus, i.e., disturbance, trespassing, property destruction, theft, accident, etc. They will intervene in disturbances, provide first aid to injured and investigate some reported crime on campus. They will contact emergency services when needed and assist the Joplin Police Department in the investigation of significant criminal activity. They are trained as first responders to deal with injuries and/or serious illness on campus through training in basic first aid, CPR and the use of the Automatic External Defibrillator.

Compiling reports for incidents and accidents
Security Officers will compile reports documenting crimes, significant occurrences, accidents, etc. that occur on campus. Copies of those reports are available at the DPS Office at no charge.

Enforcing all traffic and parking regulations on campus
In order to assure that handicapped persons have adequate parking, that emergency personnel have access and to facilitate safety and order on campus, DPS Officers will enforce all traffic and parking regulations on campus.

Providing security for campus sports events, concerts, etc.
DPS Officers provide security services at events on campus to insure that participants can enjoy the events with little concern for disruptions.

Checking buildings to insure that they are secure
In addition to the various other duties, DPS Officers check to insure that buildings are properly locked in the evening hours. They also unlock doors to allow access for authorized persons entering buildings in the early morning hours.

Monitoring activities in the dorms
To insure the safety of all students and Student Advisors in the dorms, DPS Officers are on duty during the midnight hours to watch for unauthorized persons and to enforce the rules of the dorms. DPS Officers are committed to making sure the campus remains free from drugs/alcohol and violence.

Providing courtesy services for students
DPS Officers provide many courtesy services for students and faculty/staff, i.e., unlocking cars, jump starts, escorts, etc. Any student or faculty/staff member are encouraged to contact a DPS Officer with any problem and they will directly assist or direct the person to the agency/service who can provide the assistance.

Providing safety information to students
DPS Officers provide literature regarding ways to be safe on and off campus, as well as how to keep property from being stolen. Those types of materials can be picked up at the DPS Office at the West end of the campus. DPS Officers are also available to address classrooms or groups about a number of topics including: Avoiding date rape/date rape drugs, target hardening for property, personal safety, dangers of drugs and alcohol, etc. To schedule a presentation, or to ask question about the Department of Public Safety, please call the Director at 417-625-9741.