A message from Jim Dunsdon, AVP of Student Affairs
Dear students,
As we approach the period around St. Patrick’s Day, please be safe, responsible and act with respect and care for those around you. In doing so, please familiarize yourself with campus protocols and supports over the next two weeks.
First aid & emergency response
If you need emergency support, always call 9-1-1 first. If you are on campus, after you dial 9-1-1, call Campus Security at 250-721-7599.
There will be increased police, residence staff and Campus Security presence on campus over the next two weekends and on March 17. They are there to help keep the community safe.
Restricted access to Residence
For a five-day period (March 13, 14, 17, 20 and 21), only residents will be allowed to access the Residence Complex starting each evening at 7:00 p.m., with the access restriction in effect until 7:00 a.m. the following day. This applies to all residence buildings and their interior spaces, external walkways and stairs, outdoor grounds surrounding and between buildings, the residence dining facility and parking lots 1 and 5.
Non-residence students and other campus visitors will not be permitted in the Residence Complex during the hours of restricted access and will be referred to Campus Security.
Harm reduction & safer substance use
Plan ahead and follow Canada’s alcohol guidelines. Pour your own drinks and never leave them unattended. Learn about steps you can take to protect yourself and others from drink tampering.
If you use drugs, please test them to make sure they’re as safe as possible and don’t use alone. There are resources on campus to support safer substance use, including UVic’s Harm Reduction Centre and the UVSS’s Safer Use campaign.
You will not get into trouble if you call 9-1-1 for help – even if you’ve used substances and/or are in possession of substances. Learn about relevant university policy/legislation.
Create a culture of consent
Preventing sexualized violence begins with respecting one another and practicing consent in all interactions. Using alcohol, cannabis and other substances can impact how to practice consent in significant ways. Learn about the core principles of consent and consent cues and communication.
Unsanctioned gatherings & neighbourly conduct
Unsanctioned indoor and outdoor gatherings are not allowed. Students who want to host events on campus are required to follow the university space booking request process, including safety planning.
If you plan to spend time off campus with friends in our local community, please respect your neighbours and abide by municipal bylaws.
I hope you find this information helpful.
Jim Dunsdon (he/him)
Associate Vice-President Student Affairs
University of Victoria
