Staying in Control Will Keep You Safe

by Deb Taylor
 

 

--In terms of safety, Conkwright said that the best way to stay safe is to be the person in "control." Don't put yourself out of control by doing things like running while listening to a mini radio or driving with the back doors unlocked and the windows rolled down.

 

 

 "Our officers did not take an oath to serve just some people, and a biased person does not belong on the police force," stated Sergeant Stan Conkwright of the Riley County Police Department (RCPD). Conkwright, the speaker at the Flint Hills Alliance's May 6th meeting, shared safety issues and thoughts on hate crimes in Manhattan with the group.

Conkwright stated that although cultural diversity training is given at the police academy, this type of training is seldom offered to regular officers (perhaps every year or two). Still, Conkwright noted that discrimination of any kind is not tolerated in the RCPD. If someone feels that an officer has mistreated an individual based on his or her sexual orientation, that person is encouraged to go to the officer-in-question's supervisor to make a written statement and file an internal complaint. An investigation will be conducted, stated Conkwright, and in around four weeks, the person filing the complaint will get a letter from the Director of the RCPD discussing the outcome.

If a person is in the wrong, the following action could be taken against him or her:

  • suspension
  • letter placed in his or her file (which could prevent raises or promotions)
  • monetary fine
  • training for correction
  • termination.

In terms of safety, Conkwright said that the best way to stay safe is to be the person in "control." Don't put yourself out of control by doing things like running while listening to a mini radio or driving with the back doors unlocked and the windows rolled down.

When leaving home, let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return, stated Conkwright. Walk in busy, well-lighted areas. Walk on the outside of the sidewalk to be more visible. If you are being followed, cross the street and walk in the opposite direction. If you are certain you are still being followed, go into an apartment complex and knock on doors while yelling "fire." Or, walk to an open business.

 Don't rely on dogs for self-defense, and know what's going on around you at all times. "Throw away that Walkman!" exclaimed Conkwright.

If your car breaks down, don't accept rides from strangers. Conkwright suggested that people leave the names and phone numbers of three people as well as money for the phone call in an envelope in the car. In that way, a person who wants to help you on the highway can take the envelope and make the necessary calls.

If you are going out to Aggieville or other popular areas, don't carry a purse or fanny pack. Put all money in one front pocket and your keys in the other pocket. Attach a medical card to your driver's license. Wear light clothing. Don't leave your drink or food in a bar unattended; "roofies--the date rape drug--has been used by people in Manhattan," stated Conkwright. Buy new food and drinks if necessary.

Conkwright said that Manhattan is a pretty safe place in which to live. The biggest problem areas, he noted, are alcohol, damage to property, and burglary. No part of Manhattan is particularly more dangerous than another, he added. Nevertheless, if you are concerned about where to live in Manhattan, Conkwright encourages people to ask the RCPD for the crime rate in the area in which you would like to live. Also, check out the prospective house/apartment in the evenings and on weekends to find out what the location is really like.

The best way to keep your house safe, stated Conkwright, is to make it look less appealing to criminals. Leaving on porch lights at night and keeping doors locked increases safety. Conkwright is available to check out the safety of your home; just call the RCPD at 537-2112 to make an appointment.

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to fight your assailant, Conkwright said to make certain "you do some damage the first time because there may not be a second time."

Still, the best way to maintain safety, repeated Conkwright, is to be aware of your surroundings. Look at your control factors, and "don't be afraid to call the cops!"