News

Communication, awareness important for security

Jennifer Ott
For the Logos

In light of the Virginia Tech tragedy, it is important for students and faculty to be aware and prepared, according to Dr. Michael Morrison, NIACC president.

“We do have a plan,” Morrison said in regards to a campus emergency plan.

However, for the sake of safety, it is not possible to divulge all of the details of the emergency plan, according to Morrison.

Currently, NIACC is reviewing its emergency plan, which includes evaluating the communication system and looking at ways to improve the plan in general, Morrison said.

“Communication is exceptionally important,” Morrison said.

In line with this, Morrison said that it is important for students to remember that if they are suspicious of fellow students’ dangerous or unusual behavior, then they should report it as soon as possible.

According to Morrison, students can report their concerns to any of their instructors or to Student Services, which will allow the proper steps to be taken in addressing and assessing the problem.

“It is important that people follow up,” Morrison said.

Morrison said he believes students should prepare for threatening attacks or dangerous situations by having a general awareness of situations and by visualizing what they would do in an emergency. Taking these steps will better prepare students in an emergency, Morrison said.