The University of Denver scored an “A” grade in a national report on safety preparedness released Feb. 7 by Reader’s Digest.

The magazine surveyed 135 universities across the nation for its article “Safe at School?” and assigned each school letter grades of A, B or C based on their preparedness to handle on-campus threats to safety. Only 45 universities were given an “A” grade by the magazine.

The survey took into consideration variables such as the size and location of the campuses.

Almost a year after the Virginia Tech shooting, many American colleges have attempted to make improvements to their security and safety programs. In 2007, DU became one of the first universities in Colorado to create a Critical Incident Notification System. Students, faculty and staff can sign up to receive text and voicemail messages from the Department of Campus Safety in the event of an emergency.

“The report by Reader’s Digest confirms that DU’s proactive approach to safety is working. Departments charged with safeguarding students, faculty, staff and visitors are pleased that their efforts have been recognized,” said Jim Berscheidt, associate vice chancellor for University Communications.

The role of DU’s counseling services was another factor in the university’s high score.

According to Berscheidt, there are several things that make DU deserving of an “A” grade, including having all residence halls equipped with cameras, adequate smoke detection systems and regular patrols by Campus Safety. Parking lots around campus are under video surveillance, and more than 80 blue-light emergency phones with a direct line to Campus Safety are scattered around campus.

DU also has several programs that help prepare students about safety, said Berscheidt, including the first year orientation program, which includes safety information and counseling services, and a general health counseling program.

The university employs more than 30 Campus Safety officers and updates its emergency response program on a regular basis.

“University officials constantly look for ways to use up-to-date technology to make the campus safer,” said Berscheidt.

According to crime data filed with the U.S. Office of Postsecondary Education, crime is still an issue on campuses, with 40,000 robberies and 3,700 forcible sex offenses each year.

“The Reader’s Digest survey doesn’t imply that a person will be safe all the time at schools assigned an ‘A,” said Berscheidt as a final message about staying safe on-campus. “However, it does mean that these universities are working hard to make the campus as safe as possible.”

To view scores received by colleges and universities around the nation, visit www.rd.com.