According to the FBI, a violent crime happens every 19 seconds in the United States. In an effort to deter criminal activity and create awareness on the Reynolds campuses, this week, Stephanie Morton presented a “Refuse to be a Victim” workshop as part of JSRCC’s Real Life Series of discussions. She covered basic crime prevention tips that included home security, physical security, automobile safety and workplace safety. The “Refuse to be a Victim” presentation is certified through the National Rifle Association and is backed by the Virginia Crime Prevention Association. Morton, who provides administrative support to the JSRCC Department of Police and Securities, is a Crime Prevention Specialist. Her presentation also specifically covered CPTED principles. CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) is an approach to deterring criminal activity through environmental design strategies. “For instance you could plant flowers that are uncomfortable for people to stand in, like a holly bush,” said Morton. “…another strategy would be to trim your shrubs to deter criminals from hiding in them. These are natural deterrents that could make a criminal decide not to invade or burglarize your home.”
She also went over basics such as indoor and outdoor lighting, door locks, window locks and general awareness. She said it was important for students, faculty and staff to have a personal safety strategy in place before it is needed. Parking in well lit areas, being aware of your surroundings, and what to do when you are approached by a stranger are all strategies that can help Reynolds community members avoid a crime.
“There is no guarantee that you will never be the victim of a crime,” she said. “But there are a few common sense strategies that you can do to make it difficult for a criminal.”
The JSRCC Office of Student Life coordinates several discussions each semester as part of the Real Life Series which focuses on issues that impact the daily lives of students, staff and faculty.
