College Campus Safety

By: PaKou Lee, PR/Social Media Volunteer

With the recent attempted assaults at and near UW-Oshkosh campus it is scary to know that it can happen to anyone: you, me, our friends and even our loved ones. As a recent graduate of UW-Green Bay, I know students stay late at the library studying, have evening classes and group meetings. By the end of the school day, the moon is already shining down on us, probably our only source of light besides a few streetlights.

I was a commuter in college and usually planned my walks to my car around times that I know other students would be outside walking also. Typically, it was right after my evening class when everyone in class left too. When I had to stay later than 9p.m. for my sorority meetings, I would move my car from the Kress Center parking lot to the Mary Ann Cofrin (MAC) visitor parking lot to be closer to Union building.  The great thing about the MAC visitor parking lot was that non-visitors could park there after 7p.m.  When sisters parked further away than I did, I offered rides to make sure they got to their car safely.

In continuation of National Preparedness Month, here are some college campus safety tips to help you avoid incidents like in Oshkosh.

Code Blue Emergency Phones: Many colleges and universities have the Code Blue emergency phone available on campus that is directly connected to the University police/security. Know where they are located on your campus and how to use them.

Buddy System: Never walk alone at night. Always walk with a friend or in a group. It will reduce your likeliness of getting hurt. Don’t be afraid to ask friends to meet up with you. You can even ask Campus security to escort you to your car or dorm, like the Community Service Officer Safe Walk Program at UW-Oshkosh.

Do Not Take Short Cuts: Walk in areas that are well lit and most traveled by. If you are walking alone, avoid walking near wooded areas.

Stay Alert: Pay attention to your surroundings. You do not want to risk any of your senses, such as hearing. Listening to music reduces your awareness of your surroundings. If you plan to talk on your cellphone so the person on the line is aware of your whereabouts, you can say “I am crossing Leon Bond Dr. now” or “I’m getting into my car now”. But do note that it can make you appear as an easier target because you don’t look focused on your surroundings. When you are near your car, have your keys ready to use and always check behind your backseat before you go inside your car.

When you witness an incident or have been involved in one, don’t be afraid to report it to the Police and Campus Security. Report as soon as possible so you don’t forget any small details and evidence. Dial 9-1-1 or if you are unsure what number to use for campus, ask your Campus Security for more information or find it on your college website.