Alert and vigilant
Recently, armed robberies and buglaries have taken place around campus and while some suspects have been arrested, similar incidents can and will happen again.
“Be vigilant, aware of the possibilities, and willing to call us,” said Public Safety Crime Prevention Sergeant Michael Baker.
There are several simple things that can help students stay safe, such as programming the number for Public Safety in your phone. Some have already learned the importance of this number.
“I have called them before, they were very helpful and good with follow-ups,” Freshman Psychology major Lindsey Griffith said.
Always assess the risks of a situation. When walking at night, stay in well-lit areas and try to be with a buddy or with a group. Be aware that danger could be present and know to call campus police if anything seems suspicious.
“Know how you are getting from point A to point B,” said Baker.
Most crimes are crimes of opportunity that result from students not being aware of their surroundings, said Baker.
Baker concedes that students definitely have a false sense of security here at GCSU. For many students it is the first time out on their own; home was always safe, so some assume that school is no different.
Some students feel that even though Public Safety is not on every corner, they are still safe.
“I would be worried if I saw cops on campus; I’d feel like something was going on,” said Stephanie McCondichie.
Public Safety is watching, with over 150 surveillance cameras all around campus, they can see a lot, but not everything.
Always make sure that all the car doors are locked and that expensive items, including purses, are out of sight. In the recent car burglaries, all items lifted for the cars and the Village parking lots were taken out of unlocked cars, said Baker.
“All we can do is try to prevent crime by educating our students,” said Baker.
Safety Tips
? Vary your routine and use different routes everytime
? Have your keys on your hand
? Report all suspicious activity and program
University Police number in your phone:
(478) 445-4400
Posted by Colonnade Archives
on Dec 5 2008. Filed under News.
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