Image: Fourth year student, Dezarae Perez (right) plays volleyball with her Reinventing Games class on Feb. 21, 2024. Perez is a Kinesiology major, so this course helps her by showing her how to work together as a team and the techniques to several sports. Photo by Giovanna Triguis
Story by Sam Kunkle | Translation by Victoria Escobedo
1: Be aware of your surroundings.
Paying attention to where you are, the people you’re with, and any substances that are present can often be big factors when deciding whether or not you feel safe.
2: Be careful of the things you post online.
To ensure it doesn’t become harmful, be selfaware and thoughtful about what you post and share online.
3: Be wary of whom you trust.
Being socially aware of those around you is often a great signal as to how safe you are at any given moment.
4: Report any and all suspicious activity.
Anything and everything you see that makes you feel a sense of discomfort or danger should be reported immediately to the emergency phone number (361) 825-4444. If you cannot contact them for any reason, call 911.
5: Lock up any and all valuable items, vehicles, and living quarters.
To avoid lost or stolen items, lock them up to the utmost security. These measures can prevent stealing.
6: Use your resources.
An example would be the Islander Watch app, which immediately reports whatever you need. There is also an anonymous reporting function on the Islander school website.
7: Don’t be afraid to help someone in need.
This doesn’t always mean directly intervening, but it’s far better to do something over nothing if you can see someone who needs help or is in distress.
8: Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If you or someone you know is currently in a situation or circumstance that causes evident and obvious harm, call the authorities and request immediate assistance and aid.
9: Know any and all shortcuts and routes on the Island.
Knowing quick and efficient routes on the island can help you reach your destination faster and put you in a safer environment.
10: Keep useful tools on you.
Some tools can help you get out of sticky situations. Useful tools include a flashlight, pepper spray, a whistle, and a smartphone to name a few.