ATHENS, Ohio -- Ohio University always strives to maintain a safe environment and is taking additional steps to help ensure the safety of the campus community in the wake of the heightened nationwide terror alert.

The university continues to take a measured response to the threat level that exists.

Ohio University law enforcement officials remain diligent in patrolling campus and further precautions are taken with the change in terror alert status. Ohio University Police Department officers are made aware of raised terror warnings and OUPD officials are working closely with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to share information and plan for coordinated responses to any potential incidents.

The university has plans in place to respond to crises of all types and will activate the plans if needed.

University administrators have been in communication with international students on campus to discuss safety concerns and precautions. They plan to keep abreast of the policies and procedures of the university in the event of any crisis so students can be well informed.

There is no information to suggest a specific threat to Ohio University or the surrounding community.

STUDENTS IN STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS

The Ohio University Office of Education Abroad is taking measures to help ensure the safety of students currently involved in study abroad and international exchange programs. Staff members daily monitor U.S. State Department advisories and the office is a member of international education groups that advise of dangerous situations for students abroad.

The office's risk management plan has been updated and emergency plans are in place in case of an incident abroad.

Students have access to resources that are available in host countries, such as faculty program directors, international partners at sister institutions and U.S. embassy personnel, if they feel threatened. The office's normal procedure is to attempt to track the daily activities of Ohio University students studying abroad.