Picture this: It’s wintertime snow is falling, and you can hardly see the road ahead. You think to yourself, can this day get any worse? You arrive home only to realize your bag has been stolen. Feeling safe and secure on your way to school is essential, but true security goes beyond just physical measures. School justice policies are the roadmaps that guide us through the fog, helping to create a community where everyone can thrive. But what do these policies really mean, and what are the situations affecting our campus life?  

There are many instances where safety is a priority on campus. “Medical calls are usually the most common we’ve also experienced theft or locker theft. There has been stolen vehicles as well as assault cases such as fighting. You must always be aware of your surroundings and plan a route. Keep your doors locked and do not get out if being approached,” stated Humber Polytechnic Security Executive Rob Kilfoyle. 

According to Toronto Police Service, assault rates have increased over 8 per cent year after year as well as robberies which have spired to 21 per cent in 2024. 

“There are many problems I must deal with when looking at crime. Some things can be as little as road rage, but others can be stolen items or even medical problems” said Humber Polytechnic’s security guard, whose name remains confidential. 

 Justice protocols are a collection of guidelines, practices, and safeguards intended to keep individuals safe from harm and threats. Security procedures are put in place to ensure collective safety, uphold law and order, and efficiently handle crises. Some students and faculty may be aware and some may not. “I usually respond to situations regarding assault, I attend with a calm and collected manner to make sure the person affected is ok” says security guard when asked about protocol.  

“We have a survivor oriented, or survivor led process. So, if someone reports that our priority is to make sure they are safe and comfortable. If they need medical attention or police, we will make sure to involve them as well.” Kilfoyle states.  

The campus is equipped with security guards and over 100 SOS boxes, which can be accessed to request for immediate assistance when needed. “In my opinion, I feel like the SOS boxes are a real help in terms of immediate help. I feel if we are looking at what the community can do, it is just awareness. Let others know if there is a problem, tell someone let faculty know, put up signs or even go to security if in need urgently.”  said Guelph-Humber Student Claudia Ferrante. 

University policies are in place to keep students as well as faculty safe. These rules are designed to ensure fairness, equity, and accountability within the academic community. “I honestly feel extremely safe on campus. There are many of those SOS buttons everywhere, not to mention the constant flow of students, workers as well as security guards. The only time fear may kick in is when I walk late at night to the parking lot or bus stop.” said Claudia. 

In 2024, the Toronto Police Service reported 19,000 assaults, which was a 5.7 per cent increase from the previous year. stated Vilkhov Law. 

Kilfoyle comments on campus assault occurrences. “Unfortunately, we’ve had both types of assault on campus before, and we do have the occasional physical assault that might occur two people fighting or whatever. There is maybe a handful a year maybe 6-10 a year.” 

By addressing these concerns, Humber Polytechnic and Guelph-Humber will become a safer place for all. Be sure to speak out if you see anything suspicious. 

*Photo, Mika Baumeister, Unsplash