Whether it’s your first year or your last year in college, it’s important to know that scary situations can happen on even the safest college campuses. Rather than worrying what might happen when you head to class or go out for the evening, prepare yourself for any situation instead. Learn how to stay safe on campus with these six tips.
Stick With Friends
Going out with a friend or a group is an easy way to stay safe, as you can keep an eye on each other. Feel like taking yourself out to dinner or doing a late-night library session solo? Message a friend to tell her where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Then check in with her when you’re safely back in your dorm. Develop a habit of doing this with a few friends, and you can keep an eye on each other, even when you’re not together.
Keep Your Plans Private
Social media platforms are great places to learn about events and connect with fellow attendees. It’s also a great place for others to learn where you’re going and when. Rather than broadcasting your plans to everyone, adjust your privacy settings. Ensure that only close friends or family members can see which events you’re attending or consider not using social media for event planning at all.
Know Your Campus
Virtually every college campus has a security team that works hard to keep students safe while walking to class or when partying after dark. If you don’t know what the procedures are, though, you might not be able to use campus security effectively. Familiarize yourself with safe routes on campus, learn about security officer escort services, and locate emergency phone stations on campus.
Be Prepared
Even if you want to be spontaneous, take a minute to prepare yourself before leaving your dorm. Always bring your phone, a spare phone battery, your keys, your ID, and some spare cash. With these things in hand, you’ll be able to call for help or get a ride home in any situation.
Lock Up
It’s easy to get comfortable on campus and trust your dorm mates implicitly, but that doesn’t mean you should relax your personal security standards. Always lock your door and your windows when you leave your room, and keep your keys somewhere safe. By doing this, you’ll prevent uninvited guests from entering your room while keeping both you and your belongings safe and sound.
Learn Self-Defense
Even if you never have to put your self-defense skills to work, you’ll feel empowered knowing that you can fend for yourself. Take a class or teach yourself basic self-defense moves. No matter what life throws your way, you’ll be prepared to protect yourself.
Whether you’re walking to class in broad daylight or heading to an off-campus party at night, being prepared is essential.
