Heading off to college is an exciting and transformative experience. It’s a time of newfound freedom, socializing, and growing academically. With so many new things to juggle—making friends, attending social events, and keeping up with your studies—it’s easy to overlook one of the most important aspects of college life: your safety. According to a U.S. Department of Education campus safety study, in 2021, there were 21,816 arrests reported on college campuses, highlighting the unfortunate reality that college environments can be prone to crime.
While the thought of safety might not always be top of mind, preparing yourself for potential emergencies and equipping yourself with the right safety tools is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive campus safety checklist that will help you stay protected while enjoying your college experience.
1. Carry Personal Safety Tools
Having the right tools at your disposal can make a significant impact in an emergency situation. A few essential items to carry with you include:
- Pepper Spray: A reliable self-defense tool that can give you enough time to escape a dangerous situation. Pepper spray is a non lethal means of self defense that can deter an attacker.
- Whistle for Life® : This 120 dB survival whistle can alert others if you’re in trouble, especially in noisy or crowded environments. It can also help people locate you and trigger a faster response if you are in a dangerous situation.
- resqme® car escape tool: A 2-in-1 seatbelt cutter and window breaker designed to help you escape from a vehicle in an emergency. It can break tempered glass windows and cut jammed seat belts if needed. Many college students may be commuting to and from campus, driving home for holiday breaks, or simply in the car with friends. This is a crucial safety tool to keep in case of emergency.
- Flashlight: A small but powerful flashlight can help illuminate dark areas, making it easier to spot potential dangers.
2. Keep Your Phone Charged and Accessible
Your phone is one of your most vital tools for staying safe. Here are some tips to ensure it’s always ready for use:
- Charge it regularly: Always keep your phone fully charged, especially when going out for the night or walking to class. If your battery dies in an emergency, it could be a major setback.
- Consider sharing your location: Letting a trusted friend or family member know where you are can provide an extra layer of protection. Most smartphones allow you to share your live location through messaging apps or tracking features.
- Save Emergency Contacts: Make sure emergency contacts are easily accessible, so you can quickly reach out for help if needed.
- Avoid Distracted Walking: While it’s tempting to scroll through your phone, it’s important to stay alert when walking, especially after dark. Keep your phone in your pocket or use it only when necessary.
3. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Staying aware of your environment is key to maintaining personal safety. These simple habits can make a world of difference:
- Look around regularly: Take notice of who’s around you and any potential dangers. If someone seems to be following you, take action and seek a safe area.
- Walk with a Purpose: Walk confidently, with your head up, and avoid looking distracted. Criminals tend to target individuals who appear vulnerable or unaware of their surroundings.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t hesitate to change your route or leave a situation if you feel uncomfortable.
4. Walk with a Buddy
There’s strength in numbers. Whenever possible, walk with a friend or group. Not only is it safer, but you’ll also have a support system if anything goes wrong.
- Walk in groups when you can: There’s safety in numbers, so try to go places with friends or fellow students.
- Avoid isolated areas: If you can, avoid walking through poorly lit or desolate areas, especially late at night. Stick to well-traveled routes and areas where other people are present. Familiarize yourself with the safest routes to get to your destination. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid shortcuts through areas that might be secluded.
5. Know How to Respond in an Emergency
Knowing what to do in an emergency situation is crucial. Here’s a simple guide to help you react swiftly:
- Use safety tools: Whether it’s using pepper spray or blowing a 120 dB Whistle for Life® don’t hesitate to respond with appropriate force if needed.
- Get to a safe location: If you’re in a dangerous situation, try to get to a well-populated area, such as a campus building or a public space.
- Call Emergency Services: Dial 911 or your campus security number immediately. Make sure to provide them with all necessary details, such as your location and the nature of the emergency.
6. Trust Campus Resources
Most colleges offer various resources that are specifically designed to keep you safe. Take advantage of them:
- Campus Shuttle Services: If your campus offers a shuttle service, consider using it during the night or when you need to travel across campus. These services are often safer than walking alone.
- Campus Security Escorts: Many campuses offer escort services for students who need to get from one place to another during late hours. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
- Emergency Phones/Alerts: Know where emergency phones are located on your campus, and sign up for campus alerts to stay informed about potential threats or emergency situations.
Safety should always be a priority, and college life is no exception. While it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of new opportunities and friendships, it’s important to stay vigilant and prepared. By carrying the right safety tools, staying aware of your surroundings, and utilizing campus resources, you can enjoy your college experience with confidence.
Remember, it’s always better to be proactive and prepared than to find yourself in an unsafe situation. Stay safe, make wise choices, and look out for one another. Your safety and well-being are worth the effort!
