The Bison Safe App Features
Howard University announced the launch of Bison Safe, a mobile app designed to enhance the University’s ability to communicate with the community in the event of an emergency in January 2020.
The app, downloadable from the App Store (iOS) and Google Play, has several features, some of which we will highlight in this blog post.
The Division of Student Affairs at Howard University encourages all Bison to use the app and, as stated in the Bison Pledge, self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 by providing truthful and complete information in completing the daily assessment questionnaire via the Bison Safe App.
Please be advised that any student who refuses or fails to comply with the requirements and precautions in the Bison Pledge, and any other measures the University advances for the safety and protection of the Howard Community, will constitute a violation of the University’s Student Code of Conduct and could result in sanctions up to and including expulsion from the University.
We hope this blog helps to explain some of the Bison Safe App’s features! Please don’t forget to download the app, and we look forward to seeing you on campus for Summer Session II and the Fall 2021 semester.
News Feed
Get caught up on news and updates from Howard University’s Twitter page via the news feed in the Bison Safe App.
Campus Operations
This section of the Bison Safe App features resources for students, faculty, and staff at Howard University regarding returning to campus.
COVID-19 Self-Assessment Form
The COVID Self-Assessment Form in the Bison Safe App is an easy way to confirm your status and keep our community safe. View a few FAQs below.
1. WHAT DOES THE BISON SAFE APP’S COVID-19 SELF-ASSESSMENT FORM ASK?
The self-assessment form asks four commonly-asked questions to confirm your COVID-19 status. The information you provide is confidential and protected.
2. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE THE BISON SAFE APP’S COVID-19 SELF-ASSESSMENT FORM?
The self-assessment form should take no more than a minute or two to complete.
3. WHY IS COMPLETING THE COVID-19 SELF-ASSESSMENT SO IMPORTANT?
Completing the self-assessment form improves our ability to keep the Howard University community safe by reducing contact when symptoms are present.
4. I FILLED OUT THE COVID-19 SELF-ASSESSMENT FORM ON THE BISON SAFE APP. NOW WHAT?
You will be approved or disapproved to come to campus immediately after completing the self-assessment form.
5. WHAT OTHER INFORMATION CAN I VIEW REGARDING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON THE BISON SAFE APP?
The Bison Safe App allows you to learn ways Howard is handling the pandemic. You may also view DC COVID-19 vaccination data.
Emergency Contacts
Did you know that the Bison Safe App provides you with information you can use in the event of an emergency? The app also provides you with important emergency contacts.
Mobile BlueLight
Use the Bison Safe App’s Mobile BlueLight feature to send your location and call the Department of Public Safety when you feel unsafe. They will talk to you over the phone, and a call is initiated to dispatch one of their officers.
Friend Walk
The Friend Walk feature in the Bison Safe App allows you to send your location in real-time to a friend so they can ensure you are safe as you walk to your destination. It also allows them to call emergency services if necessary.
Report A Tip
Help the Department of Public Safety keep our campus community safe! Use the Bison Safe App to report a tip via a form in the app, phone call, or text message. If you see something, say something.
Campus Map
The Bison Safe App allows you to view maps of Howard University and the surrounding area.
Weather
Want to know the weather forecast? Find out by using the Bison Safe App before heading outside.
Thank you for taking the time to read this blog! Don't forget to download the app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play.
Written By: Strategic Communications Manager Melissa Simmons