The horrific tragedy at Virginia Tech last week has heightened everyone's concern and focus on public safety. In the recent past our country has experienced the presence of school shooting rampages, snipers, bomb threats, terrorists plots and biological warfare attempts. Crime occurs in many forms, anywhere, anytime, even on safe, peaceful college campuses, and it can make us feel very vulnerable.
At CSM, the safety of our students, employees, visitors and community members are of utmost concern. We have public safety officers on each of our campuses every day, and we have established processes for dealing with threats and emergencies when they arise. These are always being reviewed to ensure the best possible responses. It is crucial for each of us to be aware of what's happening around us and know how to respond appropriately when we sense any suspicious activity.
Crime prevention means being aware of your environment and remaining alert to situations that could make you vulnerable. Colleges and public venues need the help and vigilance of their citizens to help keep the environment safe. At CSM, our Public Safety Department cannot keep the campuses safe on its own; it's the responsibility of everyone who comes to CSM to work, learn or socialize to be aware of their surroundings and to report any unusual threats, sightings or events.
Crime prevention is everyone's responsibility. Please take a few minutes to review the crime prevention tips listed on the Public Safety portion of the CSM Web site.
With your help CSM will continue to be a safe place to learn, work and be enriched.