In 2004, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared September as National Preparedness Month. The goal of National Preparedness Month is to raise awareness about emergency preparedness and to learn more about the small steps you can take towards your safety and the safety of those around you.
Department News
Prevent Bicycle Theft
Despite having worked at UW–Madison for years, I’m still always a little surprised at the massive influx of humanity at the start of each school year. With all those people come literally thousands of bicycles. That provides great opportunity for bike thieves.
UWPD mourns death of retired K9 Kobalt
Our hearts are heavy as we share the news that retired UWPD K9 Kobalt has passed away. Kobalt passed on Monday, August 18, 2025, surrounded by his family. K9 Kobalt, a German Shepherd, began his …
UWPD Seeks Information Regarding 1982 Death of UW Student Donna Mraz
Forty-three years ago today, in the early morning hours of July 2, 1982, just days before the July 4th holiday, 23-year-old Donna Mraz was viciously murdered while walking home from work. The UW student was …
Green Bay Packers Honor Two UWPD Officers for Exemplary Service
Two police officers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Police Department were recognized by the Green Bay Packers for their exemplary work above and beyond the call of duty. On Thursday, May 29, 2025, UWPD Officers …
Preparing for Tornado Season: What to Know!
By: Mclayne Vaughn Tornado Terminology For your own safety, it’s important to know the terms you might hear during tornado season. This could mean the difference between possible or immediate danger, and the more time …
Lake Rescue 2025 Season Is Open
By: Lake Rescue Staff “Lake Rescue 2025 Season Is Open” As the winter recedes and temperatures continue to rise, we want people to be safe in their adventures on Lake Mendota. If you are considering …
Spring Break Prep
Spring Break is just about here, and many have their minds set on their upcoming week off — whether that means going home, staying on or near campus, or traveling to a warm, exotic destination. …
No Ice is Safe Ice
By: Community Officer Jeff Kirchman “No ice is safe ice.” That’s what a fishing mentor told me years ago, before my first ice fishing adventure. And that’s what I remind myself before I step onto …
Brent Plisch Named UWPD Chief of Police
Brent Plisch, current interim University of Wisconsin–Madison Police Department chief, has been named the new UWPD chief of police.