By Kadie Taylor
The Observer
LEE COUNTY — With recent cases of violence locally, many online are expressing their fear and uncertainty in areas where they have long felt safe. Opelika Chief of Police Shane D. Healey is reminding locals of ways to be prepared in an unsafe situation, how to protect themselves and others and what the most common threats to locals’ well-being are.
“The Opelika Police Department is working tirelessly every day to keep our city safe,” he said, “Our officers respond quickly to incidents, conduct thorough investigations and work closely with neighboring agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible. We’re committed not only to responding to crimes but also to preventing them through neighborhood patrols, community engagement and crime-prevention programs. The safety of our residents is always our top priority, and we encourage everyone to stay alert, report suspicious activity and continue partnering with us. Together, we can keep Opelika a safe and welcoming place for all.”
Healey said one of the best ways to stay safe is to remain aware of surroundings and trust instincts, and that if something feels wrong, it usually is.
“Many of the real threats to safety in our community come from everyday situations — things like distracted drivers, property crimes of opportunity and scams,” he said. “We encourage everyone to practice simple precautions such as locking vehicles and homes, following traffic laws and reporting suspicious activity right away. By looking out for one another and staying alert, we can help prevent many incidents before they happen and keep our community safer for everyone.”
If someone finds themselves in a threatening situation, Healey said they should try to stay calm and look for the safest opportunity to leave. Also, if possible, call 911 and go to a well-lit, public place.
“We encourage everyone, especially those who may feel more vulnerable, to think ahead about personal safety,” he said. “This can include sharing your plans and location with a trusted friend or family member, carrying a charged phone, avoiding isolated areas when alone and having a plan for quickly getting help. Taking a self-defense class or learning de-escalation strategies can also help you feel more prepared.”
Healey said the Opelika Police Department is proud to partner with the R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) agency to offer free self-defense classes throughout the year.
“These classes are specifically designed for women and are offered free of charge,” he said. “They focus on practical techniques to increase awareness, build confidence and teach basic self-defense skills that can be used in real-life situations. We encourage anyone interested in these classes to keep an eye on our website and social media pages for upcoming dates and registration details. Taking part in programs like R.A.D. is a great way to be proactive about personal safety and feel more prepared to handle unexpected situations.”
If someone finds themselves witnessing a violent situation or crime, Healey said to call 911 first.
“Your safety comes first,” he said. “Rather than stepping in physically, which can sometimes escalate the situation or put you in danger, focus on getting help on the way as quickly as possible. If it’s safe to do so, you can keep a safe distance and ask the person if they need help, but avoid direct confrontation unless there’s an immediate threat to someone’s life. Pay attention to details — such as descriptions of the people involved, vehicles and the direction they go — so you can share accurate information with responding officers. By staying calm, calling for help and providing clear information, you can play a crucial role in keeping everyone safe.”
With the violent crime occurring recently, Healey said it is important for parents to remember and realize a threat to children in their own homes that guardians should consistently watch for.
“One of the biggest threats to children today is often not out on the street but right in their own homes — online and on their phones,” he said. “Social media, gaming platforms and messaging apps can be used by predators to contact children or expose them to harmful content. We encourage parents and guardians to talk openly and regularly with their kids about internet safety, set clear rules for phone and app use and use parental controls to help monitor activity.
“If a dangerous situation arises, the most important thing is for the child to know how to get to a safe place, call 911 or find a trusted adult right away,” he said. “We recommend families create a simple safety plan — discuss what to do if they feel unsafe, agree on code words for emergencies and practice how to ask for help. Awareness, open communication and preparation are the best tools parents have to keep their children safe.”
In his work to protect citizens, Healey said he is passionate about the Opelika community and wants to continue working to keep residents safe.
“My passion comes from the love I have for all the people in our great community,” he said. “For 35 years, I have dedicated myself to the protection and well-being of this city. I’ve left blood, sweat and tears in its streets to ensure we do better. Opelika is unlike anywhere else in the world; it’s unique, and that is what sets us apart. I’ve always said that if we could achieve the goal of ‘Together Opelika,’ we could change the world from right here. I truly believe we have done that. Today, every person who lives, works or worships here enjoys a stronger sense of community and a higher quality of life.”
