Dear College Community,
As your trusted institution, Hostos prioritizes the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors. In light of recent incidents of violence in the local community and to ensure a secure environment for everyone, we would like to draw your attention to some essential safety guidelines and precautions.
1. Remain Vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings at all times, both on and off campus. Report any suspicious activities or individuals to campus security or local law enforcement immediately.
2. Carry Identification: Always carry your college identification card with you as it may be required to access certain areas of the campus. Students, faculty, and staff should be able to quickly display their IDs to Public Safety Officers and other college officials while on college premises.
3. Secure Personal Belongings: Keep your personal belongings, including laptops, cell phones, and wallets, secure at all times. Do not leave them unattended in public areas or unlocked rooms.
4. Use Well-Lit Pathways: When walking on and around the campus perimeter, especially during late hours, stick to well-lit pathways and avoid secluded or dimly lit areas. Consider walking with a friend or utilizing campus public safety escorts if available. You may call 718-518-6888 to arrange for a public safety escort.
5. Lock Doors and Windows: Whether a classroom or office, make sure to lock doors and windows when the room is not in use. This simple measure significantly enhances security.
6. Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and evacuation routes specific to your location on campus. Be prepared to follow instructions from college officials during drills or actual emergencies.
7. Should you encounter or witness any form of criminal activity while on the perimeter of the campus, immediately seek shelter in the nearest campus building and report the incident to public safety. Under no circumstances should you attempt to intervene or stand around to watch what is happening or record the incident with a cell phone as you could potentially risk being seriously injured.
8. Responsible Socializing: If you attend social gatherings, whether on or off campus, take responsibility for your own safety. Be cautious of your surroundings, consume alcohol responsibly if of legal age, and look out for one another.
9. Cybersecurity Awareness: Protect your digital identity by using strong, unique passwords for your online accounts and exercising caution when sharing personal information online. Be mindful of phishing attempts and report any suspicious emails or messages to the appropriate campus authorities.
10. Stay Informed: Regularly check your college's official communication channels, such as email, website, and social media platforms, for updates on safety protocols, emergency notifications, and other important information.
11. Report Concerns: If you witness or experience any safety concerns, including harassment, theft, or vandalism, promptly report them to campus Public Safety or the appropriate college authorities. Remember, it is everyone's responsibility to maintain a secure environment.
By adhering to these guidelines and remaining vigilant, we can create a safer and more secure campus for all members of our college community.
Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to campus safety.