Why the DPS Blue Lights Are So Important on Campus

By Zach Richter

SYRACUSE, NY – The Blue Light System is a fixture at every college campus including here at Syracuse University. It’s a security and safety system where one can get in contact with DPS with the click of the button. However, how much is this system actually used? In case of an emergency, will students sooner use their phone or a blue light? DPS Associate Chief John Sardino says the Blue light systems do have some use throughout campus.

“We have 300 Blue Light activations a year,” Chief Sardino says. “There’s thousands of more phone calls made to DPS by students, by the community via cell phones then there are blue lights.”

Syracuse University Sophomore Gabby Kepnes says she’s never used and explains why.

“If I wasn’t directly near it, I don’t think I would because it would take too long to walk there,” said Kepnes

Syracuse University Student Adian Shepard says

“I’ve never seen anyone use them either. I don’t think I’ve seen anyone use them. I would just sooner use my phone.”