By Gerrit McDonald/ reporter
Personal safety and self-defense training aren’t going to teach people how to fight like Bruce Lee or Jackie Chan, said NE police training coordinator Dwayne Kelley.
“Being prepared mentally and physically is always important, but keep in mind that we are not action heroes or super-persons,” he said during the Oct. 28 seminar. “If someone threatens your safety over property, don’t fight. Property can be replaced. Life, however, cannot.”
People should be mindful of the rules of safety, stay alert, walk confidently and trust their instincts, Kelley said.
The best way to avoid conflict is to walk in groups or well-lit areas. If confrontation is unavoidable, one should call for help, he said.
“If left with no other choice, then keep in mind the three characteristics of using force,” he said. “I had to. I had to right then and there. Nothing less would do.”
Kelley has worked for the TCC Police Department for four years. Before that, he was with the Arlington Police Department for over 21 years.
“When I was with the APD, I did a little of everything, from traffic to narcotics to vice,” he said. “Now, my job is mainly to facilitate the training of officers when it comes to firearms and keeping up to date on the law.”
NE business major Mary Tejada said she took an interest in this class.
“The techniques learned in this class can help people prepare for the worst, especially with the rising amount of crime that I’m always hearing about,” she said.
After the training, Kelley spoke on the Campus Carry bill, effective August 2017 for TCC and other two-year Texas campuses and its effect on his job and college security.
“I will offer training to those students who decide to bring their concealed handguns to school,” he said. “Unfortunately, it’s true that if you have it, you will be more inclined to use it, so it’s important that students receive training.”
Campus Carry won’t necessarily deter college shooters, Kelley said. They are irrational in nature and won’t care if weapons are present.
“The last thing we need though is a bunch of guys running around the campus trying to be Rambo if something were to happen,” he said. “Students need to keep in mind that a handgun is for personal safety only.”
Kelley said TCC’s role is to provide education. His job is to provide security.
“We want you to enjoy your education without fear,” he said.
In case of an emergency, students should call the TCC dispatch number at 817-515-8911.
