by Joyce Wagner
Patrolling the parking lots is one role of many performed daily by Campus Safety Officers. Their constant attention to security measures insures a safe environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors on all the DSC campuses.
Long before the first classes of the day begin, campus safety officers are at work. Each morning they are responsible for unlocking the exterior doors for all the buildings. This process is reversed each night, locking all the buildings securely. Maintaining a visible presence is also a priority. Safety officers can be seen walking through high traffic buildings or driving around the campus. Typically, there are five officers on duty at any given time at the main campus in Daytona.
In July 2012, they added five new golf carts to their aging fleet. Bill Tillard, Director of Campus Safety, said “The new carts were purchased with grant money for a total cost of $59,200.”
A few of the older models are still functional and continue to be used, but he new carts have a distinct advantage over the older carts. They are street-legal allowing the officers to drive on the city streets to get to out-lying parking areas and off-campus buildings under DSC jurisdiction. The carts are bright red, clearly visible to remind students of campus safety’s vigilance. In addition to regular patrolling, these vehicles are used to respond to accidents and citations that occur on streets adjacent to the campus when requested by local law enforcement.
Another vital part of the job is ensuring safety in the parking areas, and assisting motorist with various needs. Each year, the department makes sure trees are trimmed to allow the best lighting possible for the parking lots. They also alert the maintenance department of lights that have burnt out and need replacing. They will transport people to or from their car when requested. If your car battery needs a jump start, they can help there too. Keys locked in a car may require a locksmith, but you won’t need to wait alone in the dark.
Medical assistance is also available. Russell Gibbons, Compliance Officer, said, “All Safety Officers are trained in CPR, first aid and the use of Automated External Defibrillator devices found throughout campus.” A wall in the Campus Safety Office is dedicated to those individuals who have performed heroic feats, including several who saved lives by giving medical assistance.
A grant from Homeland Security was used to purchase two electronic signs and 40 radios for communication. The scrolling signs make it possible for hearing impaired people to be notified of pertinent information. DSC’s Mass Notification System also includes outdoor emergency loudspeakers and sirens. A unique group, Volunteer Emergency Response Teams, is comprised of trained employees who will assist in the event of an emergency. VERT, along with the Campus Security Officers train for numerous scenarios which may require lock-down or evacuations. The Campus Security Officers are certified through FEMA’s National Incident Management System.
DSC also offers Rave Alert which is a free notification system for students and employees. This allows important information to be received via a land line or cell phone. Alerts can also be found on social media, such as DSC Facebook and Twitter accounts.
DSC recently hired Paul Barnett,the new Deputy Chief who said, “as a new employee, I’m observing and familiarizing myself with the routines.”
Crime statistics are reported annually. The data for the past three years can be found online on the DSC website. You can also sign up for Rave Alerts there. Additional information and tips have been posted by the Safety Office to help everyone keep safety a top priority.