County College of Morris

Annual Security Report

AUGUST 1, 2004 THROUGH AUGUST 1, 2005
(we are currently updating this information)

THIS REPORT IS LOCATED ON THE WEB AT WWW.CCM.EDU UNDER COLLEGE INFORMATION SECURITY RIGHT TO KNOW. IT IS ALSO DISTRIBUTED TO ALL PUBLIC SAFETY PERSONNEL AND NEW OR PERSPECTIVE STUDENTS AND EMPLOYEES. UPON REQUEST IT MAY BE OBTAINED THROUGH THE FOLLOWING COLLEGE OFFICES:

As a professional County College of Morris Security Officer, although unarmed and without police powers, I understand that the setting for my duties and authority, the academic community is unique. Although my duty to protect life and property, enforce college rules and regulations and prevent crime is similar to police functions, my responsibility as a Community College Security Officer gives me a role in the college administration. My obligation, therefore, includes the serving and preserving of an environment conducive to learning and personal growth.

As a County College of Morris Security Officer, I am a friend to students and an associate of all faculty and staff. I view my service role as seriously as my enforcement role; all assigned tasks are of equal importance. For visitors to the campus, I have an important public relations as well as a safety role.

While acknowledging the responsibility of other college departments to do their jobs, I am aware that ultimate responsibility for protecting life and property rests with me. I will extend maximum effort in meeting that responsibility, balancing firm action with compassionate understanding and tolerance. When subjected to insult or confrontation with aggressive individuals, I will show restraint. I will rely on the authority and trust vested in me to act independently and decisively. By demonstrating reliability and maintaining high visibility, I will thus win community confidence.

As a County College of Morris Security Officer, whether new on the job or veteran, I will learn from the academic community and through example and enforcement, become a teacher to those around me.

The Student Right to Know and Campus Security Act of 1990 requires that all post-secondary institutions participating in federal student aid programs disclose campus security policies and crime statistics.

Beginning September 1, 1992, County College of Morris must prepare, publish, and distribute crime statistics to students and employees. Statements in this document include policies concerning campus law enforcement, security programs and practices, and statistics on criminal incidents.

The County College of Morris Public Safety Department is an integral part of the college operation.  Comprised of 14 members, its primary responsibility is an overall assurance of Public Safety administered by the Director of Public Safety who reports to the Vice President of Business and Finance. 

The Public Safety Department is adjacent to lot number five on College Avenue and is staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Information concerning motor vehicle rules and regulations, emergency evacuation, occupational safety, and environmental health are disseminated to the campus public.  Trained radio dispatchers provide immediate communications with officers on patrol and local police, fire and medical emergency departments'.  External patrols of the campus are made by Security Personnel in highly visible marked vehicles.  Occasional patrols by the local police are made through the campus. 

The Office of Public Safety ("Security") is responsible for investigating violations of law that occur on campus and should be notified immediately upon the detection of any such violation at ext. 5555 during an emergency or ext. 5550 for non emergencies.  As soon as practical, upon receipt of such notification, Security shall advise the appropriate law enforcement agency of the violation and that an investigation is being conducted.  Security shall take necessary and appropriate action with respect to the violation, to assure the protection of persons and property on campus.  Security shall coordinate with law enforcement authorities in the apprehension of suspects, preservation of evidence aid to victims, and all other aspects of the case.  A factual report shall be prepared by Security promptly after the occurrence of each violation and a copy thereof sent to the appropriate Vice President or otherwise authorized individuals or outside agencies.

On campus, misconduct constituting a criminal, drug, or disorderly persons offense will be immediately reported to the appropriate authorities for their investigation.  Where a student, employee, or visitors act also violates College rules and regulations, proceedings will be instituted under established policy or code. When the college itself is a victim of the act, the College reserves the right to institute criminal and/or civil proceedings against the student.

Off campus centers are governed by local authority.  Incidents involving CCM students must be reported to the local police departments.

Off campus centers are governed by local authority.  Incidents involving CCM students must be reported to the local police departments. The CCM Public Safety Department must be advised of the  incident as soon as possible thereafter at 328-5550. As of 2002 the College no longer operates centers in the municipalities of Boonton and Parsippany New Jersey. Our sole 0ff-Campus Center is located in the following municipality: 

HEADQUARTERS PLAZA
1 Speedwell Avenue
Morristown, NJ  07960
HQ Plaza Security  (973)898-9100X159
Morristown Police  (973)538-2200     

Security personnel receive in house training on subjects such as professionalism, diversity, aggression management, non violent crisis intervention, the appropriate use of force and other related instructions.  Security personnel are not armed nor do they have police powers.  Where necessary, the local police are contacted for criminal investigations or arrests. 

CRIME PREVENTION

Through the security right to access program, persons required to function in specific areas are issued keys under a numerically controlled system which requires a signature for each key issued.  Access to any area without the approval of a responsible party is usually not honored.  Access to County College of Morris facilities is restricted to students, employees and invited guests.  All other individuals are subject to being challenged by security personnel or other members of the general college public. Individuals who appear to aimlessly wander the campus or any of its facilities are approached, properly advised and escorted off campus when necessary.  Complaints of trespassing are filed with the local police by the Director of Security where required.

To enhance our endeavors towards domestic preparedness, Security maintains a citizens ban base station which is included in our communications system, (1994).  Signs located throughout the campus alert individuals that the security department monitors emergency channel 9 on the system.

Security has also tied in with the Plant and Maintenance Department Radio system.  Incidents may now be reported to the Security desk by contacting Plant and Maintenance personnel who are in and about the campus.  Having first hand knowledge of most College rules, regulations, operations, and functions, Plant and Maintenance personnel act as an extended vigilance of Security and Safety.

Security vehicles were increased by one in 1998 and another in 2001.  Sirens, extra search lights and loud speakers were placed in the vehicles.

During the hours of darkness, security vehicles travel the campus parking lots with the overhead rotating amber lights on, so that individuals know of their presence.

The key elements to crime prevention can be best achieved through cooperation between the Department of Security and Safety, faculty, staff, and students.  At County College of Morris, this is usually the case as the majority of our response to incidents result from in-person or phoned in complaints.

In an effort to enhance the  idea of crime prevention on campus, the Public Safety Department will publish, through the various campus news media, "TIPS FROM THE DIRECTOR", concerning Public Safety do's and don'ts. In June 1999 the college purchased and installed 19 new interior emergency phones which are ADA compliant

In March 2001, the Emergency communications system was further enhanced with the installment of 20 exterior call boxes located throughout the campus

Crime prevention is further enhanced by the dissemination of the college’s Student Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Appeal Procedure. Through the Division of Student Development this information is provided to students annually.  Within about two weeks of his or her hire date, all new campus employees receive a one on one orientation regarding Campus Security and Safety.  All employees are invited to Policy and Procedure briefings annually regarding Security and Safety. 

The Public Safety Department accomplished the following for 2004- 2005:

1. Hired a consultant, ( The Marsh Group) to conduct a campus Threat and Vulnerability Assessment.
2. Installed exterior paging system on all buildings.
3. Removed unwanted shrubbery from various walkways and entrances.
4. Staggered reporting times for security staff.
5. Placed locks on all classes housing technology equipment.
6. Restrict vehicle access on campus walkways to emergencies or special deliveries.
7. Established security vehicle escorts for authorized vehicles traveling the inner campus.
8. Announce campus closing over the interior paging system requiring all non-essential individuals to vacate the premises by 11:00p.m. prior to the campus lockdown.
9. Established and implemented a campus access policy when the College is closed.
10. Restructured the Student Community Center and restricted exterior door keys to security staff only.

The department (ext. 5550) will provide members of the campus community with an escort to their vehicle under the following conditions: 

Students, employees or visitors who display fear for one reason or  another and requests transportation.           

                        -  All individuals who become ill or suffer minor injuries

-  (Money Escorts) all individuals carrying large sums of  money -- upon request.

The department will assist members of the College Community with jump starting or unlocking vehicles.

Individuals driving or parking on campus are required to obey all traffic signs, regulations, and Security Officer's directions. College motor vehicle rules and regulations are enforced by the College Security Department and State motor vehicle statutes are enforced by the Randolph Township Police and by county and state police agencies. Violators will be subject to fines, towing or disabling of the vehicle and revocation of permission to operate and park a motor vehicle on campus.

EMERGENCY PHONE CALLS

There are thirty-three (33) emergency phones located inside various campus facilities. Each are connected directly to the Security Department and are given priority over standard calls.

1.  All inner campus phones in college buildings (dial 5555)

 2.  Red Emergency phone locations: 

   LOCATION                                         EXTENSION / NEAREST ROOM 

HH 2^nd Floor Lobby                                             5574              HH 249

HH Lower Level Outside Back Door                     5561              HH 143

HH Elevator                                                      5557             Elevator HH

LRC 2^nd Floor                                                      5533              LRC Top Stairs Pillar

LRC Lobby, 1^st Floor                                            5536              LRC Lobby Pillar

LRC Media Center                                               5537              LRC 233

LRC Elevator                                                    5549            Elevator LRC

HPE 1^st Floor                                                       5538              HPE 107

HPE 2^nd Floor Outside Main Entrance                   5569              Outside by Main Entrance

SCC 1^st Floor                                                       5564              Bookstore

SCC 2^nd Floor Main Lobby                                    5539              Between Restrooms

SCC Elevator                                                     5567             Elevator SCC

DeMare 1^st Floor                                                  5534              C126

DeMare 1^st Floor                                                  5565              C116

DeMare 2^nd Floor                                                 5541              C202

DeMare 2^nd Floor                                                 5563              C224

DeMare Elevator                                               5548             Elevator DeMare

High Tech 2^nd Floor                                              5542              High Tech 218

High Tech 2^nd Floor                                              5531              High Tech 212

Academic Exp 2^nd Floor                                        5545              Cohen Vestibule B240

Academic Exp Area 2                                           5544              C242

Academic Exp 1^st Floor                                        5530              A141 Between A & B

Cohen 1^st Floor                                                     5540              B124

LOCATION                                                      EXTENSION/ NEAREST ROOM 

Cohen 1^st Floor                                                     5535              B104

Cohen 2^nd Floor                                                    5532              B236

Cohen 2^nd Floor                                                    5568              B221

Cohen Elevator                                                  5547             Elevator Cohen

Sheffield 2^nd Floor                                                5529              A229

Sheffield 2^nd Floor                                                 5529              A225

Sheffield 1^st Floor                                                 5527              A103

Sheffield 1^st Floor                                                 5528              A110

Sheffield Elevator                                               5546             Elevator Sheffield

Dalrymple House                                                  5566              Outside by Side Entrance

Legal Authority:  Sexual harassment is prohibited by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, and the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination.

Policy Statement:  The County College of Morris reaffirms its desire to create an academic/work environment for all students, faculty and staff, that is not only responsible, but supportive and conducive to the achievement of educational/career goals on the basis of such relevant factors as ability and performance.  Students and college personnel are required to maintain an environment that allows all students and college employees to enjoy the full benefits of their learning experience or work.  The use of implicit or explicit coercive sexual behavior to control, influence or affect the performance or status of an individual is prohibited.

Definitions:  Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

(a)    Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or status in a course, program or activity; or

(b)   Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for employment or educational decisions affecting an individual; or

(c)    Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or educational performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working/learning environment.

Examples of Sexual Harassment:  Sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to, the following examples of conduct

(a)    Sexual propositions;

(b)   Use of authority to coerce or induce sexual favors;

(c)    Sexual innuendo;

(d)   Sexually suggestive comments;

(e)    Sexually oriented “kidding” or “teasing,” practical jokes, or jokes about gender-specific traits;

(f)     Sexually explicit language or gestures;

(g)    Display of sexually suggestive or explicit printed or visual material that is not an integral part of an authorized course of study or authorized art exhibit;

(h)    Sexually suggestive physical conduct with another person’s body such as patting, pinching, or brushing against, that is unwelcome and intentional. 

Reporting sexual harassment:  The college has established a procedure to be followed in reporting and investigating complaints of sexual harassment.  Any member of the college community who believes he or she has been subject to conduct that violates this policy should follow the “Procedure for Reporting and Investigating a Sexual Harassment Complaint.”  Copies of this procedure are available from the Office of the Director of Human Resources & Labor Relations, any academic dean, the Office of the Dean of Student Development, or the Counseling Services Office.  A summary of the procedures is incorporated in the Campus Life Calendar/Handbook.

Confidentiality:  The confidentiality of all parties involved in a sexual harassment charge shall be protected.  Confidentiality is maintained insofar as it does not interfere with the college’s legal obligation to investigate allegations of misconduct when brought to the college’s attention, and the ability of the college to take corrective action consistent with rights of due process. 

Enforcement:  Any student, faculty member, staff or administrative employee determined to have engaged in conduct that violates this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary sanctions.

Policy Statement:  County College of Morris is a community of individuals.  As such, we must strive to recognize the dignity and worth of each member of our community.  It is, therefore, the policy of the college that each individual, whether a student, administrator, support staff or faculty member, must treat every other individual with dignity and respect.  The institution strives to maintain an environment free from all forms of harassment, exploitation or intimidation.  This includes sexual assault and non-consensual sexual contact. 

County College of Morris and the State of New Jersey recognize the impact of sexual violence on both victims and the surrounding community.  The State of New Jersey has passed legislation calling for a “bill of rights” for victims of sexual assault on New Jersey college campuses.  Students may obtain a brochure informing them about their rights regarding sexual assault and services available to them on campus and in the community.  This brochure may be obtained from the Office of the Dean of Student Development, Counseling Services, Health Services, the Office of Campus Life, the Athletics Office and the Office of Security and Safety. 

Definition:  The State of New Jersey defines “sexual assault” by law (other states refer to it as “rape”).  It is an act of non-consensual sexual penetration if it is against the victim’s free and affirmative given consent.  “No” means “no,” whether it is verbal or through behavior.  Certain people and people at certain times are considered incapable of providing consent; e.g., while asleep or under the influence of drugs or alcohol).  It is sexual assault whether the assailant is a stranger, an acquaintance, or a date; it is sexual assault if it is against the victim’s free and affirmative given consent whether or not physical violence is used prior to the assault.  Another level of the law involves criminal “sexual contact,” which is intentional touching in a sexual manner. 

Actions To Be Taken:  Sexual assaults should be reported immediately to the Office of Public Safety at extension 5555 or the Randolph Township Police Department at (973)989-7010.  However, in order for the victim to regain a feeling of control over her or his life, it is very important that the victim make the decisions about reporting.  The college is committed to making information available so students can make informed decisions.  Speaking with someone about the assault does not commit the student to further action.  In addition to reporting the assault, the victim should be aware of the following actions to be taken: 

(a)    MEDICAL – If a sexual assault occurs, it is advisable not to bathe, shower, douche, change clothing, eat, drink, smoke or urinate.  It is advisable to seek medical examination quickly to collect evidence, should the victim wish to take legal action presently or in the future.  Immediate medical attention is also important for physical injuries, sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy.  It is also advisable to have an HIV test done separately from the medical exam, at an HIV Testing Site, where HIV tests are done confidentially, anonymously and free of charge.  The Office of Health Services should be contacted for appropriate procedures. 

(b)   EMOTIONAL – Counseling can be obtained to help the victim deal with the emotions resulting from a sexual assault, and to regain a feeling of control over one’s life.  The Office of Counseling Services should be contacted for appropriate resources. 

(c)    LEGAL/DISCIPLINARY – Criminal charges can be filed through the municipality where the assault occurred.  A college complaint invoking the County College of Morris Student Code of Conduct can be filed with the Office of the Dean of Student Development.  Both criminal and college processes may be used simultaneously.  The Office of the Dean of Student Development or the Office of Public Safetyshould be contacted for further details.

                                                                        By action of the Board of Trustees,

                                                                        County College of Morris, 11/97

                                           SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY  OF  COUNTY COLLEGE OF MORRIS
                                             SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY FOR EMPLOYEES AND STUDENTS

 Purpose 

The County College of Morris (the "College") acknowledges that   substance abuse is a serious and complex, but treatable,          condition/disease that negatively affects the productivity of employees and students, the stability of the institution, and a condition which endangers employees and students.  It also has an adverse effect on the personal and family lives of employees and students.  The purpose of this policy is to: 

1.  Ensure that the college working and learning environment for employees, students and the public is safe, orderly and free of illegal activity. 

2.  Comply with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, 41 U.S.C. *701,  et seq., and other relevant substance abuse laws. 

3.  Provide employees and student with access to appropriate treatment and rehabilitation assistance for substance abuse.

The college is dedicated to educating its students and employees about substance abuse and maintaining a drug-free learning environment and workplace.  In addition to education, the college will discipline students and employees who are involved in substance abuse.  To further the goals of this policy, each student and employee shall receive a copy of this policy. 

Alcoholic Beverages

Except at specific functions approved by the college, the use, possession, or sale of alcoholic beverages on the college campus is strictly forbidden.  It is also strictly forbidden to be under the influence of alcoholic beverages while engaged in college-related activities, or while on the college campus.  When authorized by the college, the use of alcoholic beverages by students and employees at college functions shall be in strict accordance with college, local and state regulations. 

Controlled Substances 

Unless prescribed by a doctor, the manufacture, use, possession,   sale, distribution, or being under the influence of narcotics, chemicals, psychedelic drugs, or other controlled substance by an individual engaged in college-related activities or while on the college campus is illegal and strictly forbidden. 

Sanctions 

Persons violating these policies will be subject to applicable civil and criminal penalties.  College connected persons further will be subject to college disciplinary action, which may include suspension or dismissal. 

Assistance 

As part of its policy on substance abuse, the college provides support for students and employees in the following ways: 

1.  Establishment of student and employee assistance programs which  provide counseling and referral for students and employees who are experiencing substance abuse problems.  

2.      College sponsorship of informational programs and activities for students and employees related to substance abuse.

3.  Promotion of alcohol and drug rehabilitation groups who are encouraged to meet on the campus.

4.  Inclusion of substance abuse education information in orientation and health courses.

Abuse 

The use of mood-altering or performance-altering substances for other than medical purposes as directed by a physician.

Any beverage containing a percentage of alcohol which is prohibited from sale and / or possession by individuals under 21 years of age (N.J.S.A. 33:1-1)

Any drug or alcoholic beverage, including prescribed medication, as identified in N.J.S.A. 24:21-2, or Schedules I through V, or Section 202 of the Controlled Substance Act (21 U.S.C. *812).

Means the non-disclosure of information voluntarily communicated by an employee or student to a college referral advisor where the employee or student confidentially seeks substance abuse assistance, except that the Referral Advisor shall not be bound to honor a request for confidentiality where the information 1. discloses an intent to commit a criminal act; 2. indicates an imminent risk of harm to the student or employee, or to other persons or property; or 3.  reveals possession of a controlled substance on the college campus; 4. indicates substance abuse by a student whose participation in a clinical program, course of study leading to licensure, athletic program, or employment for the college is conditioned upon consent to disclosure of information relevant to determination of physical and psychological qualification and fitness for the program or activity.

Means a criminal statute involving the manufacture, distribution, dispensation, use or possession of any controlled substance.

Means employee counseling services provided by the Family Service of Morris County pursuant to contract with the college and any successor counseling services provided by a similar agency or center pursuant to a successor contract with the college. 

In the instance of employee, means Human Resources or Health  Services personnel; and in the instance of student, means student Counselors or Health Service personnel.

Suspicion of possible alcohol or controlled substance abuse, or  possession based upon observations or statements of concern by college staff, students, relatives, friends, physicians, counselors, or law enforcement authorities, or based upon observation of an individual's physical condition or behavior, including erratic attendance, job performance, or academic performance.

As required by 41 U.S.C. *703, it shall be a condition of each employee's employment that he / she shall 1. abide by the terms of this policy; and 2. notify the college of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than fire days after such conviction. Within ten days of receipt of such notification, or upon receipt of actual notice of such a conviction, the college shall notify any agency providing federal funding.

Voluntary Request for Assistance

Employees are encouraged to seek help for alcohol or substance abuse, or for someone in a close relationship with them. Employees may seek assistance from Human Resources personnel, Health Services personnel, or under the Employee Assistance Program. At the time of initial request for assistance, the Referral Advisor shall provide the employee with disclosure, in writing, of the Counseling Confidentiality guidelines in this policy.

Involuntary Referral

When there is Reasonable Suspicion of substance abuse by an employee, the supervisor shall request that the employee be evaluated and or tested, at the expense of the college, by a qualified       physician, psychologist, local hospital, or accredited substance abuse testing facility designated by the college ("Diagnostician").

The Diagnostician shall determine whether an employee voluntarily seeking assistance, or involuntary referred for evaluation, is engaged        in substance abuse, and if so, whether the ability of the employee to satisfactorily discharge his / her employment responsibilities and functions may be impaired.  If the Diagnostician determines that the substance abuse may impair the discharge of employment       responsibilities and functions, the college Vice President, in whose division the employee is assigned, shall be so advised, and the employee shall be placed on disability leave, with return to active employment being conditioned upon evidence of successful completion of an approved rehabilitation and treatment program. The employee shall be offered an opportunity to discuss the substance abuse determination with the substance abuse counselor before the determination is transmitted to the Vice President.

Disability Leave and Return to Duty

Any available accumulated sick leave may, at the option of the employee, be utilized during the disability leave.  The Human Resource personnel shall advise the employee of health insurance benefits available for approved rehabilitation and treatment programs.  When requesting reinstatement to active duties, the employee shall furnish the Vice President with written verification from the treatment center of successful completion of the rehabilitation and treatment program.   Additionally, the college may at its expense, require the employee to be evaluated by qualified professionals designated by the college to confirm the ability of the employee to resume active duties.  The college reserves the right to impose conditions and limitations upon the resumption of duties as recommended by the rehabilitation and treatment center or professional consultants.

While this policy is intended to encourage those engaging in substance abuse to seek treatment, nothing contained in this policy   shall preclude the college from imposing appropriate discipline due to unsatisfactory performance.  Recidivism, refusal to participate in  a recommended treatment program or refusal to submit to substance abuse evaluation to verify fitness to continue or return to duty, shall be grounds for a dismissal from employment.

Students are encouraged to seek help for problems with substance abuse. Counseling Services and Health Services provide for direct assistance and confidential referral services for students seeking help with a substance abuse problem.

Involuntary Referral

A person having reasonable suspicion of substance abuse by a student, shall so advise Counseling Services or Health Services.  A      check list of suspicious physical or behavioral manifestations shall be completed immediately by the Referring Advisor.  The Referring Advisor shall meet with the student and provide the student with disclosure in writing of the Counseling confidentiality Guidelines in this policy.  If the student voluntarily offers information that he or she has a substance abuse problem, a referral will be made immediately to an appropriate treatment agency.

Where there is reasonable suspicion of substance abuse, the Dean of Student Development, if the he / she deems it necessary to assure the safety and health  of the students or others, may suspend a student from classroom attendance, a clinical or work program, athletic program or other college functions, until a substance abuse determination is made.

When reasonable suspicion exists that a student has a substance abuse problem and the student denies that charge, the Referral Advisor shall evaluate the student's statements, attendance records and those statements or observations forming the basis for reasonable suspicion of substance abuse or possession.  The counselor or nurse           may request that the student voluntarily submit to drug testing, or be independently evaluated, at the expense of the college, by a recognized substance abuse center.

If the Referral Advisor determines that the student is engaged in substance abuse, such determination, together with a recommended referral, shall be submitted to the Dean of Student Development. The Referral Advisor shall offer the student an opportunity to discuss the evaluation report prior to submission of the same to the Dean of Student Development. Upon receipt of a report that the student is engaged in substance abuse, the Dean for Student Development may impose long- term suspension of the student and condition return to school or any clinical or work program, athletic program or other college function upon submission of evidence of successful completion of an approved rehabilitation and treatment program. The college reserves the right to impose further conditions and limitations on the student's return to the college as recommended by the professionals supervising the student's rehabilitation and treatment.

Discipline

While this policy is intended to encourage students engaging in substance abuse to seek treatment, nothing contained in this policy shall preclude the college from imposing appropriate discipline for violation of Student Conduct Codes.  Recidivism, refusal to participate in a recommended treatment program or refusal to submit to substance abuse evaluation to verify fitness to continue or be reinstated to an academic, athletic or other program shall be grounds for a dismissal from the college.

PUBLIC SAFETY SUGGESTIONS

If you travel unescorted, especially at night, you should be aware of measures you can use to safeguard yourself from attack. The County College of Morris Public Safety Department is a professional, service -oriented agency ready to assist you in any emergency. The emergency phone number at the college (5555) is accessible at all times for use if your safety is threatened. Exterior emergency Call Boxes are located in all parking lots. In the event of an emergency or for other assistance you can contact the security dispatcher by simply pushing the appropriate button on the box. If you are calling from a cell phone for an emergency, we recommend that you dial 911 and speak directly to a police dispatcher.

You can help combat crime if you are aware of:
- Suspicious Persons
- Questionable Actions
- Dangerous Conditions

Your information is valuable. Give it to the Security Department quickly. Time is important. The following observations help identify people:

1. Observe the individual's height, weight, age, complexion, dress, speech, movement and anything else unusual in appearance or actions. Identify two or more notable characteristics. Compare physical proportions and age with someone you know.

2. Observe distinguishing marks -- a ring or other jewelry, tattoo or scar, missing tooth or finger, bow legs, etc.

3. Observe if a car is used. Write down the color, make and license number
 

The best weapon against attack is psychological preparedness. An attacker usually expects a passive victim. Walking at a steady pace, looking confident, and knowing where you are going makes a difference. Although there is no sure way to protect yourself against attack, certain factors can decrease your vulnerability.

1. Try to avoid going out at night alone. When possible, walk with another person or in a group. If walking alone, be even more alert to your surroundings.

2. Walk near the curb and avoid walkways that pass close to shrubbery, dark doorways, and other places where someone may hide. Avoid shortcuts and stay in well-lighted areas.

3. Do not accept rides from strangers. If a car approaches and you are threatened, scream and run in a different direction opposite that of the car. The driver will have to turn around to pursue you.

4. Maintain a secure grip on your purse. Try to avoid carrying large amounts of money or wearing expensive jewelry.

5. Avoid working in or leaving classrooms alone at night. When possible, arrange for an escort. Never leave your purse in view when working in labs or offices.

6. Avoid over loading your arms which renders you defenseless. Be prepared to drop bundles and run.

7. Consider wearing clothing that would not impede your ability to run quickly.

8. If you fear danger, scream loudly or blow a whistle. Don't be afraid to be afraid. Raising a commotion in an uneasy situation may prevent an attack.

9. Carrying a weapon, such as an umbrella or a spray can, should be considered with caution and should be used only to stop an attack in order to get away.

Whether your car is parked in your own driveway, or in a parking lot, it is a good idea to remember the following rules:

1. Always avoid walking through or next to wooded areas or bushes whenever possible.

2. Always have your car keys ready.

3. Always approach your car dead center from the front or rear, never from the side. This allows you complete visibility on both sides (driver and passenger) and also allows detection of anyone hiding or lurking there.

4. It is advisable to carry a pocket flashlight or penlight at all times. Before getting into the car, look in the back seat and on the rear floor of the vehicle. If you 're in a parking lot, check the cars adjacent to you to assure that no one is hiding or waiting for you.

5. Upon getting in the vehicle, lock all doors at once.

6. Start the engine immediately -- don't just sit and wait.

7. Should anyone try to break into the vehicle while you're in it, press down firmly on the horn and keep it pressed down to attract as much attention as possible. Make every attempt to drive away.

8. Whenever possible, have someone accompany you to your vehicle, then drive the person to his/her car.

9. If you are ever grabbed from behind, a good stomp on the attackers instep -- as hard as you can -- will often thwart him/her and give you enough time to break the hold and run.

1. Travel on well-lighted, busy streets. Keep windows rolled up and doors locked.

2. Do not leave your purse in view. Put it in the glove compartment or on the floor opposite you. Your purse can attract a criminal.

3. Keep you car in gear at all traffic lights and stop signs. If your safety is threatened, hold down on the horn and drive away.

4. When stopped behind another vehicle make sure you can see the rear wheels of the vehicle touch the roadway. Never drive any closer. This will allow room to drive away if danger approaches.

5. If you have reason to believe that another vehicle is following you, do not stop. Drive to the nearest police station or open business. Write down the license number and description of the vehicle. Report the incident to the police immediately.

6. Park only in well-lighted areas and look for loiterers before leaving your vehicle.

7. Lock your vehicle and do not leave valuables in view. (Lock them in the trunk.) This will discourage thieves.

8. Don't hitchhike, and don't pick up hitchhikers.

These recommendations are solely for your protection. With suburban crime on the increase, and in light of a stressful economic situation, it only makes good sense to be alert to any protective measure you can take to protect yourself against an attacker.

Remember that County College of Morris Public Safety Department is there for your protection. Never hesitate to call on them for assistance in an emergency.