The Prairie View A&M University Department of Public Safety now has bike certified officers and a new blue help phone system to increase campus security.
According to police Sergeant Frank Wallace, “All officers are cycle certified except a handful.”
He confirmed that a certified officer will be stationed in each housing complex in an effort to reach students at a faster pace on what many consider to be a walking campus.
Junior nutrition major Jasmine Hollis stated, “I think it’s great and I feel a lot safer. Sounds like there will be a cut down on campus crimes.”
Sergeant Wallace also emphasized that another focus of the department will be to make sure students are in by 11 p.m., the university’s designated quiet time.
He noted that officers are finding that individuals who hang out after hours tend to be participating in criminal activity.
However, exceptions will be made for special events that the university hosts.
Another upgrade to campus safety is the blue help phone system. The phones, previously out of commission, are now up and running. With the press of a button, if students are hurt or in danger, the dispatcher will know the exact location and will be able to send aid.
If you are interested in furthering your personal security, the police department is now offering to engrave items for free.
Stop by the Department of Public Safety located in the Central Receiving Building at the corner of Reda Bland Evans and Anne Preston Streets.