The University of Kentucky launched a new campus safety app called SafeZone on July 10, offering enhanced features designed to improve emergency communication and students’ safety.

According to WUKY, SafeZone replaced the previously used LiveSafe app and offers students one-touch access to request immediate police assistance at their location, submit anonymous tips and request late-night police escorts.

The app’s features include submitting photo or video tips to the UK Police Department (UKPD) for suspicious activity or malfunctioning traffic signals and requesting emergency or medical assistance, according to UKPD.

The app also has a check-in feature that allows UKPD to monitor a user’s location, providing a virtual escort until the user reaches their destination safely. Additionally, UKPD works with UK Alerts to provide alerts via texts, phone calls and in-app messaging. 

According to UKPD, faculty and staff must download SafeZone and register a phone number to continue receiving UK Alerts, while students with a registered phone number in myUK will automatically receive them. 

The app is available for free download on Apple and Android devices. More information and download instructions can be found at the UKPD website.