Call police escort services when alone at night.
Safety concerns need addressing as a new parking garage begins construction where Lots 20, 21, 22 and 29 are located, limiting parking space throughout the college.
The other lots and garages get crammed during peak hours, and getting around becomes more difficult with more traffic than usual, translating into safety risks.
Crammed parking garages and parking lots, people parking in spaces farther from campus, in a rush to get to class or work — it turns into a hectic atmosphere.
So here are some things to remember:
Drive safely.
Sounds like a no-brainer, but with crowded spaces, maneuvering becomes more difficult, particularly in the garages.
All drivers and pedestrians need to exercise self-responsibility to ensure everyone’s safety.
When backing out of a parking spot, go slowly and be aware of your surroundings. This is especially important in the parking garages as spaces are narrower.
Additionally, take an extra moment to ensure the street is clear of traffic when entering or exiting the garages.
Pedestrians, use designated street crossings to avoid delaying traffic by avoding accidents.
Get here earlier.
With less space to park, it takes more time to do so. Arrive here early to avoid being late to class.
Carpooling is another way to mitigate traffic; organize with friends to make the most of one vehicle.
Furthermore, should one wish to avoid parking altogether and have time to spare, use the college ID, now doubling as a VIA U-Pass, to commute on VIA buses for free.
Getting here early — and leaving late, for that matter — comes with other caveats. Additional security risks arise when the campus is deserted.
With the district’s open campus policy comes the uncertainty of crime being around the corner.
Another advantage to carpooling is the sense of safety that arriving and leaving in company brings about.
However, when you are alone, especially at night, try to walk with others, but if you have to, call 210-485-0099 to request a police escort.
When it’s dark, stick to lighted paths and always have a phone at hand.
In case of emergencies, call district police at 210-485-0911.
Stay vigilant and remember: Everyone can contribute to making this campus safer.