Millions of students in the U.S. head to college each fall. For most of those students, college represents independence and freedom from their parent’s rules. But with independence comes more responsibilities, especially with regards to your personal safety. Although safety is a priority at most schools, it is important to be proactive in keeping yourself and your belongings safe. Below are several tips to help keep you safe on college campuses whether you’re a freshman or returning student:
Know about your Campus Safety or security office. Find out if they offer the following:
- Campus escort services
- Emergency phone stations
- Safety maps
Going out/Night time precaution
- Stick together, use the buddy system whenever possible and avoid walking alone
- Charge your phone, you never know when you’ll need to make an emergency call
- Download a personal safety app, like SafeTrek
Always lock up
- Dorm room/apartment
- Important belongings like your computer or iPad
Know where you’re going
Social media safety
- Be careful not to tag your location
- Check your privacy settings
Know how to defend yourself
- Take a self-defense class
- Carry pepper spray
- Use a personal alarm, like SABRE’s key chain or alarm system
*information obtained from hercampus.com and safewise.com