Kelly Nguyen || Issue 10 || December 1, 2024

What Does Public Safety Do For YOU!?

The safety and well-being of students, staff, and visitors is the top priority of the Public Safety department. Whether you’re on campus for classes, events, or simply visiting, Public Safety is here to ensure a secure environment, offering a range of services designed to keep everyone safe and assist in times of need. In case of ANY emergency, public Safety is a good resource to quickly access help, as they are already on campus. Public Safety recommends not hesitate to give them a call, because they would rather deal with a false incident than miss a real emergency. You can dial the emergency number (518-629-7210) through a personal phone or use the outdoor emergency phones and dial 911 there to get in contact with them. So, what does Public Safety do? In the event a student ever feels unsafe walking alone, especially during evening hours or nights, Public Safety offers escort services to accompany you across campus safely. Students can use this service whether they’re heading to their car, or even between buildings. On the other hand, if you ever find yourself locked outside of your car or having a dead battery, a call to Public Safety can provide assistance to get back on the road. Public Safety also keeps the campus safe by regularly patrolling the campus through parking lots to be on the lookout for unusual things, provide help, and promote security. Our Business Manager Izzie Holt
had gotten to do an exclusive ride along, and this is what she had to share about this amazing and unique experience, “As a student, I often see the officers around campus, but I never really understood the full scope of their responsibilities until I spent a few hours with Pontoon. The ride-along began with a quick discussion/brief about the officer’s typical duties. It was clear that their role goes far beyond just responding to campus happenings. They patrol the campus, ensuring the safety of
students, staff, and visitors. But they also serve as a visible presence, providing reassurance and helping to prevent potential incidents. We drove around different areas of the campus, checking for any suspicious traffic activity, ensuring that parking lots were secure, and responding to any calls from the dispatcher to assess situations. One of the most interesting parts of the ride-along was when we stopped by a forum class specifically designed for students in criminal justice or related fields. The officer spoke about real-world applications of what students were learning in the classroom, offering insight into the daily tasks and challenges faced by public safety officers. It was interesting to hear how
the profession works from an educational perspective. In the end, this ride-along gave me a greater appreciation for the role public safety officers play in maintaining a safe and supportive campus environment. They are not just enforcers of rules; they’re part of a broader community,
ensuring that everyone on campus can feel safe and focus on their education. I would highly recommend this experience to any student who’s interested in learning more about the challenges and responsibilities of public safety officers.” Overall, it’s the job of Public Safety to create a secure and safe environment for students who are learning. Don’t be afraid to use the resources when you suspect there is an emergency.