Arrests, natural disasters, break-ins, anything can happen

On Dec. 2, 2013, at the Kapi‘olani Community College, a former student was arrested for harassment after becoming irate with faculty and students in the Manele building. This person is currently prohibited from stepping foot on KapCC’s campus.

After this event, the concern of safety and security on campus has become more prominent. After all, some students commute from KapCC to UH Manoa, or to another community college. All throughout last year, there were multiple security alerts sent out via email (UH Alert system) of multiple break-ins at UHM, a fire in the Shidler building and a prison escapee in February of 2013.

It’s time to really dig in on how to feel safe on campus. The good thing about KapCC’s campus is that it’s pretty well lit, and there are often times HPD cars parked in the parking lots on campus and security guards patrolling around in their golf carts. KapCC also provides escort services to your car or wherever you need to go on campus should you feel afraid, uncomfortable, or in need of security. And don’t be afraid to report suspicious activities or persons you may come across or see from afar: you’re better off safe than sorry.

Another neat thing about the UH Alert system is that it informs students not only of campus situations, but major state situations like hurricanes, traffic conditions, or road closures near UH campuses.

Something I find helpful is to have a the KapCC security number in your phone, just like it’s encouraged to have I.C.E. (in case of emergency) in your contact list.

On the front page of this issue of Kapi‘o, our Q&A with Brian Furuto, the interim vice chancellor of academic affairs touches a lot upon the issue of the importance of students feeling safe on campus, as well as being prepared for any type of situation. It seems that KapCC and UHM covered burglaries, prison escapee, and arrest situations last year.

It’s a new year, and we at the Kapi’o hope that the students on campus feel comfortable and inclined to bring up any safety and security issues with faculty and staff on campus. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or call for an escort.

With that being said, here are some safety precautions  provided by the KapCC Campus Security webpage:

 

Safety Precautions

  • Travel and park in lighted areas; travel in pairs if possible; be aware of your surroundings; use the escort service.
  • Report any suspicious persons or activities; report all incidents no matter how minor; report losses immediately.
  • Be sure to lock and secure window and doors in your room or office; lock cars and bikes; store valuables in the trunk of your car.
  • Never loan keys to anyone. Keys may be lost, stolen, or duplicated.
  • Don’t leave belongings and valuables unattended. Mark or engrave your belongings.
  • Familiarize yourself with the locations of phones and the security office.