For students returning to campus this semester to take  in-person classes, it’s time to brush up on your safety skills.  

Back in March 2020, Grossmont College’s campus shut down due to the pandemic known as COVID-19. Students had to transition from an everyday learning environment to an online experience. After being in the safety of their own homes, students may have forgotten what they should do to ensure their safety on campus. 

There are many unexpected situations that can occur on campus. In these occurrences, students should be aware of what they need to do when they happen. Deputy Jerry Jimenez, the sole sheriff’s deputy for the Grossmont and Cuyamaca campuses, said he believes preparation is a priority. “Have a plan when on campus in case of anything,” Jimenez recommended.

“When I went to Grossmont, I don’t remember teachers showing me any emergency protocols,” said Jimenez, who suggested students search up the emergency protocols on the college and district websites.

Jiminez specifically suggested watching the “FBI Active Shooter Reference” video on the website. Knowledge of what to do if there is an active shooter is good to know in case it happens on campus. 

Taking COVID-19 precautions are also important considering it is our first semester back since the lockdown. Basic sanitation, wearing your mask and keeping your distance play a big part in the safety of the campus.  “I recommend following the county guidelines,” Jimenez said. 

Recently, there was a car burglary on Grossmont campus. The victim left their backpack in the passenger seat with the car locked. As of right now, the campus does not have any cameras in the campus parking lot. 

“If we had cameras, we could have seen who did it,” Jimenez said. Until then, he suggested that students “don’t leave any valuables in plain sight.” 

Even though social media safety does not necessarily categorize staying safe on campus, it is still important for students to consider the dangers of it. “Be cautious of what you post on social media,” Jimenez said.

Crime Prevention Specialist Monica Cordero agreed.

“Report anything suspicious,” she said. 

One of the most important precautions that need to be taken by students is walking alone at night. Students who have late afternoon or night classes need to be especially aware. Small actions such as keeping your keys on you, parking in a well-lit area, and making eye contact with people as you walk by can allow you to be in a much more safe position.

“At any time, especially at night, you need to be aware of your surroundings,” Jimenez said.

Cordero recommended when walking at night to “stay alert and not be on your phone.” 

“What would make me feel more safe on campus is having those ‘emergency button pressers’ in the parking lot in case something dangerous happens,” said Grossmont Student Alison Rose.

Located in the parking lots around Grossmont campus are multiple emergency call boxes. If you are in danger or need to call someone but do not have a phone, utilizing these call boxes is a must.

Safety on campus is an extremely important aspect in order to have a healthy learning environment. Although Jimenez is on watch, everyone on campus should be playing their part in learning about safety precautions and taking action.