Editorial: ‘Peeping Tom’ incident reminds students to stay alert

Sometimes a situation can seem normal, but suddenly turn dangerous.

Last week a man entered two different residence halls and then walked into restrooms and watched women shower. Police have since released photos of a suspect taken from a security camera and the investigation is ongoing. The police believe that the man entered the residence halls by “tailgating” or following another student into the building. This incident is just one example of how something as mundane as a person entering a building can suddenly become harmful.

Luckily nobody has been assaulted, but it is a reminder to be vigilant and careful. Often times those who commit small crimes are also capable of crossing larger boundaries, and students should always be alert to suspicious behavior.

April is sexual assault awareness month, and during this month students are reminded of safety tips and also the importance of speaking up to prevent sexual assault in our communities.

Education and awareness are tools of prevention. Knowing how and when to speak out against sexual assault as well as how to protect yourself and others can make a world of difference.

On campus security precautions such as cameras and card swipes are in place for protection, but without the attention and help of students, these mechanisms are useless.

Awareness is key in preventing dangerous situations. Students should pay attention to the people they are letting into buildings, and not just residence halls, but any campus facility. Being aware of surroundings and taking note when something seems unusual are also ways to stay safe.

Living in fear is not healthy or productive, but simply being aware and alert can make the difference between danger and safety. Awareness should not just be a priority this month, but should be on students’ minds every day.

— Erin Brown for the Kansan Editorial Board.

 

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Comments

What is inherently wrong with watching women shower? Something about the sexual turn on maybe? Suppose it was a gay person watching someone of the same sex take a shower? Some situation but one supported by the Kansan, the liberal elites, and some organizations on campus.

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