The University takes special measures to provide a secure living environment for all its residents. Most Columbia Residential buildings have superintendents residing either in or very near the building. The Columbia University Department of Public Safety instructs and oversees all building personnel on security and safety procedures, making Morningside Heights one of the safest neighborhoods in New York.
Columbia University's Department of Public Safety also provides car and foot patrols for the entire Columbia Residential area. They also maintain strategically situated guard kiosks and provide coverage for emergency call boxes located throughout the area. The Morningside Area Alliance, a community service organization founded by the major institutions in the Heights, provides additional security patrols. Evening and night shuttle and escort services to locations throughout the neighborhood are available to all Columbia students.