Heading off to college can be one of the most exciting times in a young person’s life, but it can also be a time when you are most vulnerable.  For many, it is the first time being away from home and away from friends and family.  Finding your way on a new college campus can be an overwhelming experience, but it doesn’t have to be.  The first priority should be your safety.  Following these campus safety tips can prevent you from being victimized and help you stay safe.

RESIDENTIAL LIFE

•  Attend orientation and sessions on campus safety to include drug & alcohol abuse

•  Campus emergency numbers should be known and programmed into phone

•  Learn evacuation plans for the residence halls and campus buildings

•  Register property including serial numbers and descriptions with campus police

•  Lock doors & windows at all times – day and night

•  Broken locks should be reported immediately to dorm staff or landlord

•  No strangers should be given access to your residence hall or apartment building

OUT AND ABOUT

•  Be alert of your surroundings and actions taking place around you

•  Share with friends and family your daily schedule and activities to be attended

•  Know your destination and use well-traveled routes

•  Well-lit routes should be used when walking to and from events at night

•  Emergency call box locations should be known and used if you feel unsafe

•  Walk with friends and in groups leaving no one behind

TRANSPORTATION

•  Use lock & chain to secure bikes and scooters to immovable objects

•  Park in well-lit areas to deter people approaching your vehicle

•  Lock vehicle at all times and keep windows closed

•  Secure valuables in trunk or place out of the view of others

•  Utilize bus or car sharing when traveling to destinations of distance

 

To view and download a graphical version, click image below:

 

Contributing Author:

Ken Carter | President