As the parent of a female college student, Tracey Hawkins, owner of Safety and Security Source, a safety trainer and security product retailer, created a kit with some of the same safety and security products that she sent to college with her daughter. She did so in order for other parents to feel the peace of mind that comes with helping to protect their children when they go off to school. Her company visits schools and business with her Safety Product Expo. We set up and consult with people who want to know whats available, how the products work, etc. then we make the products available.
I have talked to a lot of parents who are buying safety products for their kids. They are thinking ahead, looking for every thing to arm their kids with ways to protect themselves. Then there are those parents who dont think about it until a story comes on the news about an assault on a college campus. Hawkins adds that mostly parents are concerned and the kids are sometimes nonchalant. The exceptions are the students who know of someone who has had a close call safety-wise or have been assaulted already, they take safety seriously. However, Hawkins stresses being pro-active. She would rather educate parents and students about whats on the market and prevent crime before they are victimized. She does admit that once someone has been victimized, that they feel empowered when the can carry a product that will allow them to defend themselves. They dont feel helpless.
I have talked to too many victims who said they wish they knew what was on the market beforehand so that they at least had a chance to protect themselves. That breaks my heart. But there is something that I am able to do about it, my mission is to educate and provide quality products.
Having a daughter go away to college, I know the mind-set. Kids think they are invincible, even my daughter! You wouldnt know that she grew up surrounded by safety products and knew some of the horror stories.
Hawkins expresses frustration after seeing the focus of back to school sales and promotions on everything but safety. I see tons of care packages on the market, but no one is dealing with the biggest concern parents and college students have, and that is the safety of the student. I see a lot of advertisements for pretty clothes and fancy electronic gadgets for students going back to school, but nothing about safety! We need to wake up and re-focus our priorities. A well decorated dorm room is great, but being safe from crime is better.
As important as realizing the need for safety products, Hawkins says users need to be educated about what the products do and what they dont do. She has created a checklist on her website to teach which situations call for which products. Her website also focuses on product and safety education. On the website we offer 5 safety tips that students can follow. They are realistic and important.
The basic kit includes products for personal safety, property protection and dorm/home security. This is the minimum, the bare basics that parents can provide for their kids when leaving for school. Other safety and security products are available such as easy to use fire extinguishers, book and can safes and more.
The College Student Safety/Survival Kit retails for $ 39.95 and contains:
1. Personal Safety: Choice between a key ring pepper spray or key ring personal alarm. The leather-like spray case is recognizable and acts as a deterrent for those looking for easy victims.
2. Security: Door Stop Alarm- A wedge-shaped door stop secures the door and sounds an alarm if entry is attempted while the student is in the dorm, apartment or house.
3. Property Protection: Invisible Ink Pen- Use this pen for marking all valuables with identifying information in case of theft. If the marked item is recovered, shining an UV light (included) will cause the writing to glow providing positive ownership ID. All electronics and everything of value should be marked.
Optional Kits include the above items PLUS:
4. Auto Safety: Emergency Auto Escape Tool- Every car needs a tool that can help escape in case of an accident. The tool has a glass break tip that works on all but tempered glass and works under water, a seat belt cutter and a flashlight. Includes items #1-3 plus #4= $ 51.95
5. Auto Safety: 29-Piece Auto Roadside Emergency Kit- This kit includes booster cables, flashlight with batteries, rain poncho with hood, work gloves, utility knife, automotive circuit tester, tire pressure gauge. Includes items #1-3 plus #5 = $ 62.95
6. Fire Safety: Easy to use Kidde fire extinguisher. Small and compact. Supplements community fire extinguishers. Includes items #1-3 plus #6= $ 60.95
7. Property Protection Book Safe- Looks like a real book but is hollow inside, perfect place for hiding spare cash, checkbooks or jewelry. Includes items #1-3 plus #7= $ 59.95
8. Property Protection Can Safe- Hair spray or shaving cream can- Hollow cans that are perfect for hiding cash or jewelry. Includes items #1-3 plus #8= $ 56.95
Kits can be ordered on the website: http://www.safetyandsecuritysource.com
Toll-free: 1-866-365-4542 In KC 816-941-4542
Call to schedule a College Safety Product Expo in conjunction with campus police departments and existing safety programs.
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