From: Megan Koeth Date: January 15 Subject: The Division of Public Safety Newsletter
Human Trafficking Awareness Month
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, a time to shine light on one of the most urgent human rights issues of our time. Human trafficking is the exploitation of vulnerable people for profit, and it occurs in cities, suburbs, and rural areas alike. Ohio ranks among the top 10 states for calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, and as of 2022, it was the fifth highest state for trafficking incidents, with a rate of about 3.84 victims per 100,000 residents. Staying alert means recognizing warning signs such as restricted freedom of movement, signs of fear or control, and individuals who appear unable to speak for themselves. Communities can raise awareness by sharing resources, supporting prevention campaigns, and looking out for one another, because vigilance and compassion are powerful tools against exploitation. Together, we can build safer spaces and ensure that dignity and freedom are protected for all.
Flu Super Surge š¦
Hey Spartans, new year, same season. Don’t forget about the flu, it hasn’t forgotten about you!
Flu hospitalizations in Ohio have more than doubled, rising from 745 during Christmas week to 1,465 during New Year’s week, and the CDC continues to rank the state at a “very high” flu activity level. With Influenza A and new H3N2 variants circulating, getting vaccinated is more important than ever.
Free flu shots are available to all CWRU, CIA, and CIM students, as well as CWRU faculty and staff, just bring your CWRU ID and wear clothing that allows easy access to your upper arm.
While campus flu clinics are closed until fall 2026, appointments can still be made through MyHealthConnect. As RSV cases also rise statewide, remember to wash your hands, rest well, and stay home when sick to help protect our community.
Run. Hide. Fight.
The Case Western Reserve University Police Department offers an active aggressor response program for our university, known as Run. Hide. Fight. The program has received national praise and is presented by request to CWRU community members. Click the image to watch the video.
During the training, attendees get an in-depth look into an active-shooter and aggressor situation while learning tactical advantages during an armed-intruder incident.
Since CWRU Police began providing this training, more than 10,000 community members have attended, learning easily applied strategies and concepts to take if faced with an armed assailant entering a building or classroom.
Officer Jun Yan brings eight years of dedicated service to the field, with experience spanning the Stark County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson Township Police Department, and multiple specialized units. Fluent in Mandarin and trained in CIT, crash reconstruction, and taskāforce operations, he continues to build a career grounded in skill, service, and community connection. We asked him a few questions to get to know him a little better, and here’s what he had to say.
Q: How long have you been in law enforcement, and what is the most challenging part of your job? A: I’ve been in law enforcement for eight years. The most challenging part is adjusting the relationship between family and work!
Q: What goals do you have for your law enforcement career? A: I hope to become a police chief one day.
Q: What hobbies or interests do you have away from work? A: I enjoy road cycling, swimming, and shooting.
Q: Marvel or DC? A: Neither.
Officer Yan’s dedication, humility, and drive for growth continue to make him a valued part of our division, and we’re grateful to have him serving our community!
Winter Dehydration
Winter dehydration is a hidden risk that many overlook. Cold weather often dulls our sense of thirst, yet our bodies continue to lose fluids through breathing, urination, and even unnoticed sweating under heavy layers. Dry winter air and indoor heating further accelerate moisture loss, leaving us vulnerable to dehydration despite the chill. Ready.gov emphasizes that being Winter Ready means preparing for all seasonal risks—including maintaining hydration to support energy, focus, and resilience. Staying mindful of fluid intake is just as essential in winter as it is during summer heat.
Cold Weather Wellness
Cold weather can take a toll on both physical and mental health, but simple habits help maintain wellness. Dressing in layers and protecting extremities reduces the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, while staying hydrated combats the dryness caused by cold air and indoor heating. Nutritious foods, adequate sleep, and safe vitamin D intake strengthen immunity during shorter, darker days. Moisturizers and humidifiers protect skin, and regular exercise or social connection helps prevent winter blues. By combining physical protection with hydration, nutrition, and mental care, you can stay resilient and thrive throughout the season.
A Message from Chief Owens
Welcome back, everyone. I hope your winter break gave you the chance to rest, recharge, and spend time with the people who matter most. As we ease into the spring semester, remember that our updated card access system is still in place, so keep your CWRU ID with you and give yourself a little extra time when heading into buildings. Please take care of yourselves this season; if you’re feeling sick, stay home and let yourself recover, and remember that seasonal depression is real, so check in on your elders, your friends, and yourself. Maverick and I are glad to see campus coming back to life, lets make this semester a great one!
Blue Envelope Program
It is the policy of the Case Western Reserve University Police Department to treat all individuals with dignity, respect, and professionalism. This voluntary program aims to improve communication and understanding between law enforcement and community members with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, Alzheimer’s or Dementia, or any other conditions that might require additional awareness or accommodations during traffic stops and other law enforcement encounters. Blue Envelopes can be obtained at the CWRU Division of Public Safety, Disability Resources, or the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities. For more information, please reach out to Deputy Chief Gilmore.
Locks Work
Keep valuables and electronics secured and out of site, including in your vehicle. Get a bike lock free from the CWRU Police. If you notice something missing, please report it by calling 216.368.3300.
Division Whoa!
While the university paused operations during winter recess, the CWRU Division of Public Safety remained fully engaged, maintaining continuous 24-hour staffing to ensure campus safety and security operations function seamlessly. This steadfast commitment allows the campus community to enjoy a safe, secure, and well-deserved period of rest.
Did you Know?
Snow is made up of 90–95% trapped air, which gives it incredible insulating power. That’s why animals can burrow beneath it to stay warm, and igloos built from snow can maintain surprisingly cozy temperatures inside!
