Peer-led council addresses safety issues
- posted: 04 Dec. 2007
- scrollspecial@byui.edu
BYU-Idaho — a place of perfect peace and harmony where nothing ever gets stolen, and no one ever does anything stupid … right? If that were the case, apartments wouldn’t be broken into, and pedestrians would never be hit at poorly lit crosswalks.
In the winter of 2006, the president’s council decided to create the Student Safety Council to inform students of the different dangers that students face on a daily basis and to encourage them to use caution and common sense.
The need for a student-run council was initially brought to light when the president’s council was discussing the issue of Internet safety.
“Students weren’t understanding that what they put on Facebook can be used against them, [and] Internet fraud [was a problem],” said Kevin Myasaki, dean of students and adviser to the council.
The safety council gives students opportunities to lead and be creative. Some students are volunteering, while others are getting practicum credit in the communication major.
Council members work to inform their peers about threats and give students tips on how to avoid those threats. They create posters, videos and even screen savers to spread the message.
The Student Safety Council focuses on three main areas of concern. One is personal safety, such as keeping doors locked and bikes chained.
Another is pedestrian safety, which involves being careful at crosswalks, whether driving or walking.
Internet safety is also an area of concern, especially with Web sites like Facebook and MySpace. The council wants students to be aware of the dangers such Web sites entail.
“MySpace is being used as a tool for predators, and prospective employers are now looking at online profiles and using them [as part of the interviewing process],” said Ryan Littleford, a senior studying communication and the Student Safety Council managing director.
The group also wants to help students to understand the realities of Rexburg.
“We don’t live in a bubble, and we are just as susceptible to crime as elsewhere,” Littleford said.
Dani Sims, a junior studying communication and the managing director over personal safety, agrees.
“There are obvious things but we would also like to inform students about the things they aren’t so aware of. Our goal is to help students recognize and realize the importance of safety,” Sims said.
Because the council just started this semester, students are needed and scholarship opportunities are available.
To get involved, e-mail Sims, next year’s managing director. For more information, go to www.byui.edu/scroll for a look at a commercial of the Student Safety Council. 
