Week 6: Be Safe
Have Someone's Back
"Kent State is a very safe campus, but make sure you look out for yourself too. If it's late at night, use our campus security escort system or if you need to talk someone about your mental health take advantage of Step Up Speak Out!"
— Amanda Bevington, Kent State FlashGuide studying Communication Studies
See what else Amanda had to say »
Safety is Everyone's RESPONSIBILITY
Whether you find yourself struggling with a situation or notice a friend or an acquaintance whose behavior has changed, Kent State offers a large net of services to respond to various challenges. Even though you may not need all of these services at this moment in time, it's good to know they are available:
- Flash ALERTS
Opt in to receive text alerts about campus closings or delays due to inclement weather, power outages, fires or other emergency situations. You can add an extra phone number to keep your parents informed, if you'd like to do so. - Escort/security aides
The Department of Residence Services provides security aides to patrol the residence halls and provide campus escorts Sunday- Wednesday from 8 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. and Thursday - Saturday from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. Escorts are available throughout the campus when security aides are on duty. To get an escort contact the security aide dispatcher at 27004. - Step Up Speak Out
When it comes to individuals in emotional distress, or those who may exhibit disruptive behavior, it is important to step up and speak out. By doing so, you can be part of this effort. Helping those in need strengthens our community and is an integral part of keeping the campus safe. Our suicide prevention and support group strives to ensure that individuals are linked to appropriate services and resources. - Sexual and Relationship Violence Support Services
The Office of Sexual and Relationship Violence Support Services (SRVSS - pronounced "serves") at Kent State University was established to educate students about personal safety and violence prevention, to empower them to build healthier relationships and to be responsive to students in need. - The university's emergency plan
Serves as a quick reference guide for students, faculty and staff during pending or actual serious emergencies. - ALICE training
ALICE stands for Alert, Lockdown, Information, Counter and Evacuation. It is a comprehensive crisis training program designed to give participants common sense insight and response options when encountering an active shooter. - Report an emergency
If you are in distress or witness a peer in distress, call 9-1-1 for your cell phone or any blue-light phone on campus. - Winter gear
Remember to bring your boots, coats, hats, gloves and scarves back to campus after Thanksgiving break, if not sooner. Northeast Ohio can get bitter cold. You'd be surprised how many students forget these items!
DISTRACTIONS
It's right about now that, for some new students, roommate issues begin to escalate. Maybe your favorite shirt has gone missing one time too many, and you are tired of sharing. Maybe you have footed the bill for wings more than you feel is your fair share. Maybe she snores and just can't help it! Maybe YOU snore and can't help it. Maybe it's a bigger issue related to personal values. As a result you might be avoiding your room by spending more time at the library, with friends in other residence halls or grabbing late night snacks downtown. Don't let your guard down. Keep safety on your mind and use the resources available to you.
And work to solve your roommate conflict. Open discussions, awkward as they may be, can help clear the air and set expectations. Remember, everyone has a bad day. If you and your roommate are still struggling, consider approaching a residence assistant at your residence hall for resolution help.
