The SMU campus seems like a safe environment, but should students feel at ease when walking alone?
The walk to class just got a little bit longer with the addition of the new residential commons and many students are apprehensive when walking on campus.
SMU sophomore Marielle Newell said, “I definitely feel safe during the day but at night I would say it depends on the area.”
SMU provides services for students who want to stay safe on their journey to class. Giddy Up us a campus security escort service that offers free rides anywhere on the SMU campus. But some students aren’t satisfied with the program and its ability to increase security on campus.
“They never answer the phones so you’re forced to walk alone on campus,” said SMU sophomore Emma Wesel.
When students do have to walk alone on campus and feel unsafe, SMU provides Emergency Blue Light phones for emergencies. Students can press the call button to get in direct contact with the SMU Police Department. A police officer will immediately dispatch to the location of the phone to assist the caller.
Although they do patrol, the SMU Police Department encourages students to report suspicious activity on campus. Lieutenant Bernie Trujillo said, “We encourage students to please call 911 immediately. Time is the essence in such situations. We are here for you to keep the community safe.”
They also keep the community safe by giving students rides when Giddy Up is no longer running. According to Lt. Trujillo students can call the police to get an escort 24 hours a day.
Students can also take safety into their own hands by learning self-defense.
“Any form of resistance. If you put up any fight. It doesn’t need to knock attackers down. But if you are loud, if you are taking time, you will discourage the attacker,” said SMU Professor Piotr Chelstowski.
Students in these classes are taking action and practicing skills to increase their safety here on campus. The SMU Police Department encourages students to take precautions when walking around campus at night.
