A new mandatory training discussing firearms on campus will soon be distributed by email to all faculty and staff. It will be rolled out for students to participate in at a future date.

The training is the result of one of the 30 recommendations that came from the independent review team’s findings after the death of U student Lauren McCluskey last October. The recommendation stated the university should provide additional training about proper reporting of weapons or the possibility of a weapon on campus.

“This training will help students, faculty and staff know what to do if they see a weapon on campus,” said Jeff Herring, chief human resources officer. “Our intention is to make the safety of those who work and study here or visit the university a top priority.”

As per University Policy 1-003, the U enforces Utah state law regulating firearms on campus. The law allows a concealed weapon permit holder to carry a concealed handgun on campus—but the weapon must always remain completely concealed.

“If you see a weapon on campus, don’t ignore it,” said Robert Payne, deputy general counsel for the U. “Get the information over to the police and let them engage with the person and handle the situation.”

It’s important for people to respond appropriately when a weapon is seen or talked about on campus.

If you hear about a firearm on campus, but don’t actually see one and the person is acting in a threatening manner, immediately call 9-1-1 or university police at 801-585-COPS (2677).

If you see a firearm on campus:

• Do not engage the person with a firearm
• If the firearm is anything other than a handgun, call 9-1-1
• If the firearm is a handgun and the person is acting in a threatening manner, call 9-1-1
• If the firearm is a handgun and the person is not acting in a threatening manner, call university police at 801-585-COPS (2677)

The new training will discuss what can be expected of law enforcement when reports of firearms are made and the university’s protocols for addressing weapons violations.

If you have any concerns, do not hesitate to call university police.