The large San Jose City College campus has been active with thefts which alert faculty and students alike.

     According to notifications sent out via text message from SJCC, thefts ranging from bikes and cars stolen, burglaries and harassments have been reported within the past month. These reports have added more insecurity in regards to not only the students and faculty safety, but in regards to keeping their possessions safe as well.

“Cameras on campus would be a great addition to scare off people,” said Alaina Hawkins, a 20-year-old SJCC dental major.

     Besides the idea of cameras, there are other ways to take safety precautions.

Jerry Hernandez who is 23 years old and public relation major said, “Installing blue light beacons would help with safety concerns. When you push the button, an officer can escort you to safety. This would help night time students feel safer if an issue were to erupt.”

     The SJCC campus is large and can be uncomfortable at night time because of lack of activity occurring. This creates an environment that leaves students and faculty in vulnerable positions.

On the San Jose-Evergreen website, the safety policy states that students should stay in well-lit areas; which are a difficulty since the campus lacks quality lighting.
“Lighting is a perennial problem; one that needs to be addressed,” said Barry Del Buono, a sociology professor at SJCC.

     Aside from lighting, avoiding isolation can prevent assault. Large groups of students or faculty are less likely to be harmed. If a person is not involved in a group, what should they do?

The website mentions that students should be aware of places to seek refuge. A few places to seek refuge would be in well-lit areas or areas with activity such as classes occurring or students roaming the campus.

     “A video played before the first class of every semester similar to the ones played on an airplane where a steward tells us we can do in case there is an issue. It would tell you how to keep an eye out for others and how to protect yourself,” said Del Buono.

Students and faculty have made suggestions that can help the campus feel safer.
Here are a few tips to stay safe according to San Jose and Evergreen Valley Districts website:
• By signing up for AlertSSC System, students and faculty will receive alerts about activity on campus.
• Do not wear or bring anything of high value.
• Wear clothes that allow you be swift.
• Carry a cell phone
• Walk in groups or pairs
• Make sure to try to remain in lit areas