How to Stay Safe on a College Campus

Going off to college is an exciting time for young adults. For many it is their first time living away from home. They have increased freedom which may bring more risks. Although most college students stay safe, accidents, crime and alcohol-related deaths do occur. There are ways to reduce the possibility of a problem and things to do to stay safe on campus. Read on to learn how to stay safe on a college campus.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Attend a self-defense class. You will be taught what parts of the body to aim kicks and pounces at to fight off an attacker. Many campuses also have seminars to attend such as date rape prevention.

2. Learn the locations of the emergency phones. Most colleges have phones throughout campus which are directly linked to security. Take a look around campus and know where the phones are located on your most traveled route.

3. Walk on well-lit paths. Take the most traveled route to and from classes. Avoid deserted parts of campus. Walk with others if possible especially at night.

4. Use campus escorts. If you do need to walk alone at night many campuses have volunteer escorts who can accompany you. Escorts are screened in advance.

5. Keep doors locked. Lock the door to your room as you leave and when you are home. Do not prop open any doors to the dorm to allow friends to enter.

6. Know the emergency exits out of your dorm. Be sure there are working smoke detectors. Locate the fire extinguishers.

7. Go easy on the alcohol. Approximately 1700 students die from alcohol-related injuries each year. Alcohol often plays a role in date rape. Drinking too much may impair your judgment and make you less aware of your surroundings.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the college newspaper and check emails regularly. They may alert students to problems on campus.
• Join or start a Campus Watch Program. It is a crime prevention program similar to neighborhood watch.
• If you see something suspicious don't hesitate to call campus security.
• Don't forget what you learned in the past. The same rules apply while living away from home. Don't drink and drive and don't accept a ride from someone you don't know.