Know The Signs Of Potential Violence At School!

From: www.channelone.com

Loss of temper on a daily basis

When a person has trouble controlling feelings of anger, they may resort to violence as a means to express anger and frustration. It's important to learn how to express such feelings appropriately, whether with a trusted friend, adult or professional.

Frequent physical fighting

Constantly getting into fights and other acts of aggression may escalate further if the person doesn't get help. Being a bully, and being the victim of a bully can lead to further violence. If a person is fighting because he's the target of bullies, or is bullying to take out his frustrations on others, a trusted adult-- such as a counselor, teacher, or parent-- should get involved.

Significant vandalism or property damage

A disregard for the law and for the rights of others is one sign that help is needed. Destroying and defacing objects or property of others is a form of violent behavior that can lead to physical violence against people.

Use of drugs or alcohol

Substance abuse, whether it's drugs, alcohol, or both, is a sign of something wrong. While substance abuse alone may not lead to violence, it's a self-destructive behavior that requires professional help. Enlist the help of a trusted adult if you see a friend abusing drugs or alcohol.

Increase in risk-taking behavior

A person who does things to put himself in harm's way, such as reckless driving, dangerous stunts, self-mutilation or drug abuse, or who is entertaining thoughts of suicide, needs intervention by a trusted adult or professional before he seriously hurts himself or others.

Enjoying hurting animals and setting fires

Someone who finds pleasure in causing pain and destruction needs help. Hurting animals and playing with fire should be reported to trusted authorities before the violence goes further.

Carrying a weapon

If someone brings a weapon to school or you hear of it, tell someone. You have the power to prevent violence at your school by saying something to a trusted adult. According to PAX, an anti-gun violence group, 93 percent of all weapons confiscated from teens were a result of tips from fellow students.

However, be safe. Don't spend time alone with someone who displays warning signs of violent behavior-- and don't resort to violence or a weapon to protect yourself.

Detailed plans to commit acts of violence

If you know of or see any sort of plan detailing an act of violence, whether at your school or elsewhere, speak up. Experts say that in 75 percent of school shootings, attackers told someone of their plans.

Tell a trusted authority figure, whether it's a family member, guidance counselor, a member of the clergy, coach, or teacher. Above all, don't keep it to yourself.

Announcing threats or plans for hurting others

If you hear someone making or announcing plans to hurt others, tell someone about it. Don't assume it's a joke-- and don't ignore it. Be safe and tell a trusted adult, or call 1(866) SPEAK UP to anonymously report the threat. Your call will be transcribed and forwarded to the proper local authority.

Call 1-866-SPEAK-UP to report a weapon threat at school.
If you know about a student carrying a weapon at school, or talking about bringing a weapon to school...
If you hear someone threatening violence with a weapon...
If you know about someone's plans to hurt anyone at school...
Call 1-866-SPEAK-UP. That's 1-866-773-2587.
Don't ignore it. Don't assume it's a joke. No threat is a joke.
Don't try to solve the problem yourself.
Tell a trusted adult at school or call 1-866-SPEAK-UP to anonymously report the threat.
The call is toll-free. Your tip will be transcribed and forwarded to the proper local authorities so the threat can be resolved safely. In case of an immediate emergency, please call 911.
You have the power to prevent school violence by just reporting weapons or threats of violence at school. Use your voice.
Call 1-866-SPEAK-UP. It's anonymous and free.