Penn Guardian is a free app that is available to all Penn community members. It was developed by the University’s safety partner Rave Guardian, a service utilized on college campuses across the country.
Registering is easy- search “Rave Guardian” in the App Store for iOS devices or Google Play for Android devices. You will be prompted to enter your name, phone number, and Penn email address, which provides access to the University’s customized interface.
Calls from a registered phone will allow Penn Police to determine your cell phone’s GPS location, which can decrease response time. This information will only be available to Penn Police if you call the PennComm Communications Center (PennComm) directly, either through the app or at 215-573-3333.
The app also allows users to create a Smart911 profile, in which medical conditions, medications, allergies, and disabilities can be included. This information can also be viewed at other Smart911-enabled emergency response centers across the country should you need to call them.
If a call is made to PennComm, and you are unable to speak—perhaps because of an allergic reaction—a call taker will send a text message to your phone. You can then communicate directly via text.
The app includes other features, such as a safety timer, and provides a confidential way to submit a tip to Penn Police—with a photo, if necessary—through a text message.