Almost all college students will be exposed to the offensive words and behaviors of other students, as they move through their college years. Some of those disturbing incidents and experiences will simply be minor, while others may be deadly serious. Either way, it is clear that students are likely to find themselves on the front lines of illegal and dangerous behavior. Therefore, it is important for students to say something, if they see or hear something that concerns the safety and security of others.

Of course, most young adults express themselves in positive and acceptable ways. Unfortunately, disturbed people are not always so tame. They may preach and practice negative, aberrant or violent words and behavior. That’s why every college student should be aware that worrisome people often reveal themselves when they are:

- Delusional
- Destructive
- Angry
- Antisocial
- Irrational
- Hateful
- Disrespectful
- Disruptive
- Dangerous
- Violent

When students become aware of dangerous, destructive or illegal behavior, they are obligated to report it, so that others are not harmed. Unfortunately, immature students are reluctant to do so because of an unwritten “law” that says reporting even the most serious of crimes and behavior is “snitching.”

Grow up! Do not jeopardize other people because of your reluctance. If students are to prevent innocent people from getting hurt, they must react quickly and report serious and dangerous behavior. You should report students who:

- Steal from other students
- Assault people
- Rape someone
- Harass others
- Threaten a student
- Abuse someone
- Bully someone
- Sell drugs
- Possess weapons
- Steal an Identity
- Send spam
- Hack into computer systems
- Develop a computer virus
- Possess chemicals or dangerous materials

On Campus - Report illegal, dangerous or alarming behavior to the:

- Head of Campus Security
- College President
- Dean of Students

In The Community - Report dangerous behavior to the Police and to Campus Authorities.

On The Internet - Report illegal behavior to Campus Authorities and the Information Technology Department.

Write it all down. Document who, what, where, when, how, how many and what kind. Record names, license plate numbers, e-mail addresses and all pertinent facts and details of the behavior. When students report alarming activity, it gives campus and community authorities the opportunity to prevent violence and injuries. That is the responsibility of every student. Therefore, you must say something, if you see or hear something.