The Virginia Commonwealth University Police Department operates these Emergency Reporting Telephone System (ERTS) phones, which have been serving the community for decades. The program has grown substantially in recent years, now covering approximately 300 locations throughout the metro area.

"We call them ERTS phones. It's just a quick, direct way for people to make contact with our dispatch center," Major Nicole Dailey with VCU Police said.

The bright yellow emergency phones are strategically placed throughout VCU's campuses and satellite offices. Every parking deck features multiple ERTS phones positioned near stairwells and elevators, while parking lots also have the devices readily available.

When someone presses the red button, dispatchers respond immediately with a standard greet

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