In a Dec. 5 Northern Star article, Michael Coakley, executive director of Student Housing and Dining Services, said that compared to other Illinois schools, NIU’s residence halls’ security system is a 10.

While the Residence Hall Operation Staff does all it can to ensure the safety of residents, sometimes it just isn’t enough, and harm eventually can find its way into the residence halls.

Much of the residence halls’ security depends on the efficiency of the after-hours check-in process. Although residents may get frustrated by it, it is important to keep track of who enters the residence halls while preventing uninvited outsiders from entering. The check-in process, however, isn’t enough to prevent violent crimes.

Three suspects were arrested and charged with aggravated battery Sunday morning after they allegedly pushed a Douglas Hall door attendant to the floor before entering. They proceeded to grab, punch and kick another male before one suspect displayed a knife and stabbed him on the right side of his back, according to University Police.

NIU housing officials believe that security in the residence halls is effective to the extent that the RHOS provides. Coakley made improvements after a decline in security efforts several years ago by administering background checks for potential employees. While check-in attendants may be qualified, they shouldn’t be expected to act as police officers and fend off threatening individuals. Door attendants have a direct link to the University Police via walkie talkies, but walkie talkies don’t offer immediate protection.

Off-duty police officers or professional security guards who work between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. possibly could increase much-needed security in the residence halls by acting as a back-up for those admitting residents into the residence halls. They may raise the cost of living in the residence halls and may cause the current RHOS to undergo a reduction in student employment. But can they make a difference in security? Yes. Are they worth it? Yes.

Those looking to break the law in or near the residence halls are likely to be more intimidated by someone with a gun and handcuffs than by someone with a name tag. The officer wouldn’t have to replace those who work at the door, but offer assistance in case of an altercation.

Security cameras watching the main entrances may help solve crimes that happen in the residence halls. However, they would not prevent all crimes and may give residents a false sense of security if there’s no one watching them.

An increase in police presence at the UP office in Douglas also can help, along with more police patrolling.

Willard Draper, residential life director, said because of the campus’ accessibility, residents must take the initiative to report suspicious activities. “Adding security does take more time and money on everybody’s part.”

Some of the issues in the residence halls don’t involve the police. NIU has a very active judicial office that takes plenty of behavioral complaints. Unless criminal charges are filed, the Northern Star does not have access to incident reports.

Without more security measures being put in place, students living in the residence halls will have to take a more active approach by becoming increasingly aware of their surroundings to ensure safety.