Inadequate security incidents can occur anywhere, but the idea of physical assaults and attacks hit home this month when a female Kennesaw State University student was attacked on campus. On Friday, May 4th, KSU alerted students, faculty, and staff members of the attack via text and phone alerts. Although she was not sexually assaulted, the attack near the campus residence hall had community members shaken when they received these alerts right after 7:45 on the morning of the 4th. According to the Marietta Daily Journal, this attack at Kennesaw State near Marietta led to students reassessing the safety of their campus. The alerts were vague and many students were left wondering where on campus the attack occurred and what they should do next. Many are now preparing to take further caution when traveling alone on campus in the future.
Kennesaw State University is reported to have a high level of security on campus, so the attack was unexpected. KSU offers a variety of crime prevention and education programs through its Department of Public Safety. Students may begin taking greater advantage of the programs in the future.
A Few Safety Tips to Keep In Mind
Attacks are not common in the Kennesaw and Marietta areas, but being aware of safety precautions will make everyone a little safer.
- Avoid walking alone, especially at night. Traveling with a buddy or a group of friends greatly reduces the risk of being a victim of crime.
- If you must walk at night, use public, well-lit walkways and avoid dark, isolated areas.
- Let someone know where you’re going and when you should be back. In case of an emergency, someone will be able to report to authorities about your whereabouts.
- Do not display valuables as you walk. Money, credit cards, and expensive jewelry may be attractive to a potential robber. Purses should be kept tucked closely under your arm.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Appearing alert instead of being immersed in texting or talking on the phone will lessen the chances of an attacker selecting you as their victim.
- Dress for freedom of movement. If there is a chase, you want to be able to run.
- If you see someone suspicious or who alarms you for any reason, contact police immediately. Reporting potential dangers can ensure that everything is safe for you and those around you.
In the event you are being followed, changing direction, such as crossing the street, could help evade a potential attacker. Continuously looking back so the person realizes you are aware of their presence is another option when being trailed. Immediately get to a well-lit and populated area if possible, and try to notice as many physical details that you can so that describing the person to the police later will be easier. As soon as it’s safe to do so, report the incident to the police.
Kennesaw Premises Liability Lawyers
Oftentimes attacks can be attributed to lack of security in public locations. There are a variety of circumstances that endanger citizens due to a lack of safety and security. Kennesaw negligent security claims may include rape attacks, criminal attacks, robbery, abduction, and many other crimes. Public establishments should be aware of possible crimes on their property and do everything to prevent them. Especially in high crime areas, property owners should take precautions, including providing working alarm systems, operating video monitoring equipment, functioning locking mechanisms, adequate security and proper lighting.
When someone is hurt on another’s premises, negligence must be proven. In Georgia, proving liability is not always easy. Implementing the aid of the top personal injury attorneys at Jones & Swanson is detrimental to your negligent security claim. The affordable Marietta premises liability attorneys at our office take pride in representing each and every client in a personalized and dedicated manner. Contact the experienced Kennesaw premises liability lawyers at our firm today to find out more about safety tips and your rights.