Survey Finds Only 20 Percent of Respondents Very Confident in U.S. Colleges’ Emergency Readiness
Research from Accruent surveyed 1,000 U.S. adults to explore how campus safety and facility conditions influence college choices.
- By Chelsey Arries
- October 20, 2026
Only one in five U.S. adults surveyed expressed strong confidence that colleges and universities could effectively handle emergencies, according to research released by Accruent.
The company’s Campus Safety Confidence Gap survey, conducted by Dynata, also found that 43% selected staff trained in emergency response when asked what would most strengthen their confidence in an institution’s commitment to safety.
Respondents identified facilities, security, communications and technology as contributing to how safe a campus feels. Outdoor lighting contributed to perceptions of safety for 94%, compared with 92% each for building cleanliness and upkeep, 89% for a visible security presence.
Maintenance problems could also influence college decisions, according to the research. Fifty-eight percent of survey participants said substantial repair backlogs or recurring facility disruptions would make them less inclined to enroll at or recommend an institution.
Communication was another priority: 78% placed high importance on immediate updates for students, staff and visitors during emergencies or significant building disruptions. When considering limited budgets, 32% favored spending on emergency preparedness and communications, while 28% preferred maintaining and updating existing facilities.
Seventy-six percent of U.S. adults surveyed considered campus safety very or extremely important when choosing a college or university for themselves or a loved one, according to research released by Accruent.
About the Author
Chelsey Arries is assistant editor of Security Today, Campus Security Today, Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Protection Online.