Letter to the Editor: Improve University security

By KANSAN

Wednesday, April 18, 2007

In light of the tragic events that recently unfolded at Virginia Tech, I think we need to take a close look at lacking security measures at our universities. As a university student, I can tell you that security on university campuses across the nation, including the University of Kansas, is extremely inadequate. While most campuses boast an efficient Department of Public Safety, they lack one of the most important communication tools needed during times of crisis. While the University has an efficient method of mass electronic communication through its Web site and through e-mails, it doesn’t have an effective way to let all people on campus in every building know that there is an imminent emergency unfolding. A public address system or warning siren system should be installed in every university building as well as along Jayhawk Boulevard to let KU students, faculty and staff know that a dire situation is unfolding and lock-down is necessary. From what I understand, Virginia Tech had some sort of PA system and/or warning sirens, and the gunman was still able to massacre 32 people. I fear what the toll could have been if a warning system had not been in place. I’m sure the University has an emergency response plan but few students are actually aware of it, rendering it useless in an actual emergency. The University should make a better effort at informing students about proper procedures during an emergency. After Columbine, security measures were greatly improved in American high schools, but little was done for American universities. I hope that action to increase security on college campuses follows this horrible event.

Matt Becker, sophomore

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