Writing about true crime, consuming true crime and being a Criminal Justice major, I am very conscious about safety.
I think that it is incredibly important to remember to take measures to ensure our own safety and deter criminals from us. Around ETSU, there has been several shootings at a local apartment, reported cases of sexual assault downtown and ETSU is located in a city right next to an impasse of two major highways, I-81 and I-26. This is an area with what could be considered a hometown feel, while still housing almost 70,000 people in its limits (United States Census Bureau).
So, what are some ways we can feel safe, be safe and plan accordingly. Let’s start with car safety. It is often a common reaction to unlock your car as you are walking up to it. However, in doing so, we allow someone standing on the opposite side or near by the opportunity to sneak into the car.
We also allow the opportunity for someone to get into the car with us, by sitting unlocked and stationary. Ways to avoid this are waiting until you reach the car to unlock it, as soon as you get in, lock the car doors. Always remember to be vigilant of your car and the surroundings in the nighttime and daytime.
In being safe, there is also the point of remembering that although you may think somewhere is safe or someone is safe, we must be cautious. Tell someone or keep a locational app on to allow for someone to know where you are. Stay weary of who is around, what is around, and anything that may be off.
Trust your gut or intuition. It is often your first indicator that something is wrong. Most of all, live your life, just remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
