Students' safety

By Editorial

No one ever anticipates a disaster, but the Santa Clara community should nevertheless be prepared. Although the university has developed a plan, not enough emphasis has been placed on encouraging students to prepare. The primary burden of responsibility, however, rests on individuals to take their own safety seriously.

In last week's The Santa Clara, poll results showed that only 7 percent of students were familiar with the university's Emergency Procedure Handbook. Furthermore, only 37 percent of students even knew where evacuation points are located.

Because 78 percent of students also claimed that Campus Safety would be inadequate in maintaining order, it is imperative that students understand how to take care of themselves in a disaster -- especially if Campus Safety and local police are immobilized.

Of course Campus Safety can't guarantee order when no one has reviewed contingency planning, thought about preparing, or even know where to assemble if a disaster such as a major earthquake occurs.

Vice Provost for Student Life Jeanne Rosenberger said in last week's edition that students must "take some responsibility for their own safety."

Two-thirds of students claim they would know what to do in an emergency, and a similar amount expect help from city government. In reality, however, the university and its students and staff would be on their own for at least 72 hours post disaster, as was reported in last week's The Santa Clara.

While it's hard to imagine a major natural disaster hitting, no one can ever be too prepared for an earthquake or other emergency. At the bare minimum, even a quick scan of the main tips and information in the university's plan book could mean the difference between life and death.

Although the university should do more to encourage students to review the plans, it is ultimately not the responsibility of the university, Campus Safety or government to guarantee safety. The student is also responsible for him or herself.