Damaged property, broken bones, lost time and lawsuits are only some of the repercussions that may be caused by the lack of responsibility some have for safety at our school.
In light of a recent collision on campus between two individuals, we must all listen to the wake-up call and observe safer habits while using alternative means of transportation.
Whether a college student, staff or faculty member, everyone moving about the campus has a responsibility to protect oneself and others from harm.
Although methods of transportation, such as skateboards, roller blades and bicycles, are not technically allowed on campus, there are still some travelers who utilize time-saving mediums to get around.
Being that we find ourselves preoccupied with college-related matters, among other things, faster forms of travel, especially, need to be accompanied by a proactive mentality concerning the safely of those around us.
This is a campus shared by over 23,000 students who must considerately share all avenues and walkways allotted to them.
Precautions must be taken before rounding a corner or zooming past an area, no matter how sparsely populated it is, in order to avoid hurting anyone.
With everything students have the responsibility to carry out, the last thing to get in the way should be a preventable injury.
There are laws that govern the roadways, to reduce distractions while increasing safety, like not being able to text or listen to loud music. Such regulations do not formally exist for pedestrian travel.
Common sense must then be used to guide us. With a little extra effort, we could all lend a hand and feel safe moving from class to class.
So think twice before racing around dangerously past classmates and give plenty of room to those who may not see you on your way to your next destination.
A simple, “excuse me”, can help clear a safe path while passing through crowds or by those traveling more slowly.
Running late can also encourage unsafe behavior so plan ahead to include a reasonable amount of time to travel to places on campus.
Wearing only one earphone is a small sacrifice as we lend an ear to the safety of our peers.
In the end we have all been taught ways to be safe in the past. As our elders always advised us, look both ways or someone may end up hurt.
