PBA of New York State Offers Tips for a Safer SUNY Semester

Friday, September 13, 2013

The law enforcement union representing the police officers patrolling the State University of New York’s colleges today stepped forward to welcome students back to university campuses around the state and issue a series of safety tips as part of an effort to keep the campus community safe.

This is the second year the PBA of New York State has issued a series of recommendations to students in at the start of the Fall semester.   
 
“SUNY campuses are not immune to the public safety perils encountered in every community across the state,” said James McCartney, Director of the SUNY Police Officers and Investigators Association and a PBA of NYS Executive Board Member.  “However, it is likely that many upsetting incidents can be minimized by using solid judgment and taking reasonable precautions.”
 
Each year, incidents of sexual assault, robbery, accidents and injury occur in SUNY communities – often stemming from poor judgment due to excessive alcohol or illegal drug use.
 
The Police Benevolent Association New York State, the law enforcement union representing University Police issued the following safety tips to SUNY students in the hope of contributing to a safer semester:
 
SUNY STUDENT SAFETY TIPS
 
1: Preprogram emergency phone numbers on your cell phone; and keep a list in your dorm/apartment for urgent situations.
 
2: Report suspicious activity to University Police immediately.
 
3: Be aware of “Blue Light” emergency phone locations .
 
4: Don’t walk alone.   When on foot, limit your travel paths to well-lit, high visibility areas and be accompanied by those with whom you are familiar.
 
5: Take mental note of all exits in case you need to make a quick exit during an emergency.
 
6: Secure your personal possessions.  A wallet/purse, ID card, phone, tablet, laptop and car keys are  easily removed or stolen when unsecured.
 
7: Firearms are prohibited on campus.  You are not permitted to possess handguns, rifles or any other dangerous weapons on campus or in your car.
 
8: New York’s legal drinking age is 21.  It is illegal to purchase or consume alcohol if you are under the age of 21. Breaking this law, or any other, will jeopardize your enrollment status and your future.
 
9: Yield to pedestrians.  When operating a vehicle approach crosswalks with caution.
 
10: Driving while intoxicated or distracted can results in tragedy.  Don’t become a statistic.  
 
In addition to the University Police across the state, the PBA of New York (www.pbanys.org) represents Park and Environmental Conservation Police and State Forest Rangers.