The primary function of the Security Department is to protect the people and property of Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences. Personnel within the department consist of a full-time director and four security officers. While the security office itself is open only during regular business hours, security officers are on duty 24 hours each day, 7 days a week, and can be reached by phoning security at 509-823-3346 or 249-7727.
The PNWU Security Department is not a commissioned law enforcement agency, nor do personnel within the department have arrest authority. Rather, the department is designed to help keep the likelihood of criminal activity to a minimum and to keep the campus community aware of any safety/security issues via the school paper, leaflets, bulletin board announcements, etc., in a timely manner.
The Security Department implements modern techniques such as Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED). The Security Department has implemented an internet block-watch program, where neighbors and business owners share weekly crime occurrences. The Security Department works directly with the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office and their Citizen Volunteer Patrol.
In the interest of making campus life as safe as possible, the PNWU Security Department provides 24-hour security for the university community and it facilities. The security staff are trained in the areas of safety, security, and law enforcement. Security staff members have as their goal a crime-free, comfortable setting on campus, and are available to assist the PNWU community in a variety of safety and security-related areas including:
- CPR/first aid
- Safety escorts
- Crime prevention information
- Vehicle registration/parking permits
- Student ID/building access cards
- Criminal incident reporting and investigation
- Lost and found
- Battery jumper service
- Vehicle unlocking
- Other areas of general assistance to campus community
The PNWU Security Department, like all security departments, depends greatly on the cooperation and support from the college community. We ask you for this support during your attendance at PNWU. We also invite your suggestions for improving our service. Please feel free to call us or stop by the office anytime you are in need of assistance, emergency or otherwise, or if you have any questions.