Safety on Campus
By Suzanne Shaffer and CollegiateParent
When it comes to personal safety, today’s college students live in a world that requires vigilance and awareness. Colleges and universities work to foster safe environments, but students share responsibility. As your student acclimates to their new campus and life, check in about what they do on a daily basis to keep themselves safe. You can help by supplying good advice and the best safety tools available.
A Basic Safety Checklist Many of these recommendations were shared at orientation and move-in, but it’s good to revisit the list periodically — it may take your student a while to check off every box! Always lock your dorm room and secure your valuables.
Use the buddy system when taking public transportation, Uber and Lyft, too.
Don’t let anyone who doesn’t have a student ID into the residence hall. Even if they ask nicely. Verify their identity.
Use campus security escorts and safe rides.
Sign up for campus emergency alerts. (Parents may be able to sign up for these as well.) Program emergency numbers into your cellphone for easy access.
Take advantage of safety training. Many campuses offer self-defense classes, or you can sign up for one at a local Y or recreation center.
Use the buddy system. It can be tempting to go for a run alone, or make a quick trip to the library by yourself after dark, but it’s not worth the risk. Never be alone at night or in remote areas. Stick with your friends at parties and don’t let a friend leave a party alone or with someone they don’t know.
Register any valuables with serial numbers (electronics, bikes, etc.) with the campus police department. This makes them easier to track if they’re stolen.
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