Community Involvement and Safety

Providence is full of locally-owned shops, restaurants and services that contribute to the city's unique charm. While searching for new favorite spots in the area, we recommend that you explore nearby markets, specialty stores and eateries.

Whether you're looking for large chain supermarkets or smaller neighborhood markets, you'll find plenty of options that meet your needs. Farmers' markets are excellent places to buy fresh produce, local goods and artisanal products. At these markets you can also meet fellow residents and vendors, further integrating you into the community.
 

In Providence you can find many parks and outdoor spaces perfect for unwinding, taking a walk or getting some exercise. Among these are India Point Park, Roger Williams Park, the East Bay Bike Path, and others. 

Providence is home to several coffee shops, libraries and independent bookstores. Most neighborhoods have a public library within walking or short driving distance, giving you a free option for study space as well as connections to community events and workshops.
 

We advise you to get familiar with the Providence Police Department's contact information, precinct locations and community outreach programs (or, if you live outside of Providence, those of your city or town).

Even while living off campus, RISD Public Safety is a valuable resource. You can still access services like safety escorts, emergency alerts, and more. Keep RISD’s emergency contact information handy.

Providence neighborhoods often have local watch programs aimed at improving safety and fostering community connections. You can find local watch groups through community centers or apps like Nextdoor.

We recommend using apps like Citizen, Nextdoor, or Ring Neighbors to stay updated on local safety concerns, report suspicious activity, and connect with neighbors for real-time updates on events in your area.

Familiarize yourself with the Providence Fire Department’s contact information and station locations. We also encourage you to review basic fire safety tips, like checking smoke alarms and understanding fire escape routes.
 

It’s essential to know the contact information and locations for nearby hospitals, urgent care centers, and emergency medical services. Places like Rhode Island Hospital, Miriam Hospital, and Brown Health Urgent Care should be in your list of resources.
 

You can sign up for local crime alerts through services like Crimemapping.com, which provides real-time crime data. This is especially helpful if you’re new to Providence and want to stay aware of any incidents in your area.

Always dial 911 in case of any emergency. Additionally, RISD Public Safety offers a campus-specific emergency line that you can call for assistance, even if you live off campus. Don’t forget about mental health crisis resources like The Samaritans of Rhode Island and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline during stressful times.
 

We recommend securing your off-campus residence with smart doorbells, security cameras, or basic safety measures like deadbolts and window locks. Some local police departments also offer home safety assessments to help you better secure your space.