GBC safety tips and resources

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St James Campus exterior, King Street, with streetcar

We take the safety of our students, employees and the entire George Brown College (GBC) community seriously. To help you stay safe on campus and in our surrounding area, there are a number of services available for you at GBC. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to a Public Safety and Security team member.     

GBC Safety App 

The GBC Safety App was developed to help students and employees stay connected and safe while travelling off campus. We encourage you to download it. It’s available in the Apple Apps store and the Google Play store. 

  • The emergency contact button enables you to call 9-1-1 or Toronto Police Services.  
  • The Friend Walk button allows you to send real-time location data to a friend who can watch you as you commute to or from your destination.  
    • They can track you and trigger a call to emergency services if necessary.  
    • If you are in a panic situation, you can notify your friend and start an emergency call. 
    • If your friend gets disconnected, the app will end the walk and give you the option to make an emergency call. 
  • The Safety Toolbox includes GBC Safe Walk, which provides free escorts to students and employees.  
    • You can be escorted up to 2 kilometres off campus.  
    • Services are available Monday-Friday from 6:15 p.m. to the end of classes. 
    • Students and employees at GBC spaces located at the Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) should contact TMU security or e-mail walksafe@ryerson.ca.  
  • Also in the Safety Toolbox, there are travel safety tips on walking, cycling, driving, transit, taxi, Uber and Lyft.  
  • In the Public Safety section, you’ll find links for GBC Counselling and Student Well-Being, as well as other resources. 

Travel Safety Tips 

  • All transit stations have Designated Waiting Areas (DWA). Stand there while you wait for your train or bus. These areas are well-lit and have a direct connection to TTC staff from an emergency call box, as well as security cameras. 
  • When travelling at night, try to take transit with a friend. 
  • If you’re travelling alone on transit, try to sit as close to the driver as possible. This way, they can assist you if necessary. 
  • Remember to use the TTC Request Stop Service, which allows riders travelling alone between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. to be dropped off anywhere between stops. Just ask the driver. 
  • The GO Train has an emergency number – just text “Help” to 77777 if you need support. 

We understand the safety tips listed above may not address all concerns. For more information about how to stay safe while on campus or getting to campus, visit our travel safety tips webpage.