Emergency Blue Light Phones Light the Way for Students

As part of a robust campus security strategy, emergency blue light phones are located throughout campus and in parking garages and offer a direct connection to the University of Arizona Police Department. 

What are emergency blue light phones and how do they function? 

The primary purpose of the emergency blue light phones is to immediately connect the caller with the UAPD. 

When a member of the campus community presses the button it calls directly to UAPD. No dialing or conversation is required, but if possible, try to describe the emergency to the dispatcher when you call.

“It's very similar to an elevator phone. If you ever get stuck in an elevator, you press the button and it calls the UAPD dispatch,” Sgt. Andrew Valenzuela with UAPD explained. 

While mobile phones are portable and should absolutely be used in emergency situations, the emergency blue light phones serve as an extra layer of protection if cell phones are low on battery or out of signal range. Additionally, in high-stress situations, being able to push a single button and immediately reach the relevant emergency services is simpler than calling 9-1-1 and attempting to explain where you are and what’s happening.

“The blue light phones also immediately let our dispatchers know where on campus the help is needed so we can dispatch help to that location instantly,” Sgt. Valenzuela continued. 

When should someone use a emergency blue light phone?

They should be used for: 

• Fire emergencies
• Crimes in progress
• Medical emergencies
• Accidents
• Reporting suspicious behavior or activity.

With nearly 300 emergency blue light phones, a student, faculty or staff member should be able to see the next one in any direction on their journey through campus. A full map of the emergency blue light phones can be seen on the health and safety layer of the University of Arizona Main Campus Interactive Map.