Emergency Preparedness & Community Safety

Being prepared for emergencies and understanding how to respond to hazards in your daily life - whether at work, home, or in our community - can help protect your health, safety, and wellbeing. We provide resources and information to help you mitigate risks, respond effectively when emergency occur, and recover quickly afterwards. Explore the UMass Amherst Emergency Alerts & Procedures, learn about safe pedestrian pathways, and check back monthly for timely safety tips and preparedness resources on topics that impact our community.

Emergency Preparedness

In an emergency, knowing what to do and where to get information can keep us safe. Visit our Emergency Management page to register for the UMass Amherst Emergency Alerts, learn step-by-step procedures for various hazards, and training opportunities to help you respond effectively when it matters most.

Learn more about the Office of Emergency Management

UMass Amherst Emergency Alerts Emergency Procedures Preparedness Resources

Be UMass Ready - Monthly Preparedness Series

Each month, we highlight a different community safety topic with practical tips and resources you can use at work and at home. Browse our library of monthly materials on topics ranging from fire prevention to cooking safety, and check back regularly for new preparedness information.

September 2026: Build a Safer Campus Together

People walking along a pathway near the pond on UMass Amherst campus.

Pedestrian Only Zone Program

UMass Amherst is launching a pilot initiative, starting fall 2026, to establish a pedestrian-only zone in central campus. By restricting wheeled vehicles in this area, the university aims to enhance safety for pedestrians, minimize conflicts between different campus users, and gather data on how this approach affects campus operations—helping inform whether a permanent policy may be warranted.

Learn more about the Pedestrian Only Zone Program