Blue Light Kiosk | Police Department | University of Minnesota Duluth

Blue Light Kiosk Info

Stationed around campus you will find blue light poles that can be found illuminating the night. These blue light kiosks (also referred to as emergency phones, blue lights, or blue phones) are a key part of the University’s campus safety approach. But how do they work, you ask? Read on to find out.

What do they do?

Each kiosk is equipped with a security camera monitored by the Department of Public Safety (DPS). They provide a direct connection to the St. louis County 911 dispatch center.

When should I use it?

If you ever need assistance from fire, medical, or police, use the blue light kiosk. Common uses include:

Medical emergencies
Suspicious activity
Accidents
Crimes in progress

Where are they located?

There are currently 8 blue light kiosks located on the UMD campus. Please see the image below for the locations circled in red.

Why are they necessary?

Blue light kiosks are another tool to keep yourself and our campus safe. They can:

Be helpful if you don’t have a phone with you
Provide real-time video monitoring
Connect you to UMDPD
Be helpful when adrenaline or fear may inhibit you from dialing 911 or for those who may not know our country’s emergency number
Be easier to use with just the push of a button

How do I use it?

Push the button to get connected to 911. DPS will be notified, and the LED light will flash so that emergency services can locate you.
Answer the questions provided by the dispatcher as accurately as possible.
Dispatch will send a UMDPD officer and/or other emergency personnel to your location. If it is safe, wait for them to arrive.
Keep talking to the dispatcher until help arrives. The call will end once first responders arrive on the scene.