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Teams of Queen’s and Kingston community partners are out knocking on doors in the near-campus neighbourhood over the next two weeks in an ongoing effort to connect with students about the importance of responsible behaviours and safety.

Members of Student Community Relations, part of Support Services and Community Engagement in Student Affairs, are teaming up with Campus Security and Emergency Services, Kingston Bylaw, and Kingston Fire to educate students living off-campus on the University District Safety Initiative (UDSI), and how to celebrate safely.

“The relationships we have been able to foster over the past few years have been very important, with the safety and well-being of our students and the Kingston community being the biggest priority,” says Mary Ann Tierney, Manager, Student Community Relations. ”The Student Community Relations team, along with our community and campus partners, have dropped off important educational resources, while providing students an opportunity to ask questions about issues of concern and getting involved in the Kingston community.”

By going directly to students, team members are also able to check on their well-being and connect with them on topics such as local bylaws and fire safety, and answer questions about the UDSI which is in effect from Oct. 14 to Nov. 1.

It’s also a time to emphasize to students that if they do take part in parties, it is important they be safe and responsible – messages include: don’t climb, don’t break glass, keep roadways clear, eat food and drink water, know your limits, know where to go for medical assistance, look out for others, and be a good neighbour and citizen.

In addition to direct communications to students living in the area and in residence, all partners – including the Alma Mater Society – are sharing social media posts to encourage students to exercise safe and respectful behaviours.

Kingston Police are also providing information directly to students in the university district and in residences.

A Resources for Off-Campus Gatherings hub with information and key links is available through the Student Community Relations website.

The door-knocking campaign is part of a larger effort by the university to promote safety and responsibility during celebrations.