15 Ways to Stay Safe on Campus

Campus security is a serious issue. In 2007 there was a total of 1435 arrests reported dealing with illegal weapons and 46 cases of murder. That's not counting the cases of rape, hate crimes, stalkers, or those victimized due to drunk or drug-abused students. Ninety percent of rapes occur between people that already knew each other and approximately half of rapes happen on dates. Unfortunately, many college students today are dealing with issues that go far beyond academics. Some don't feel safe on their own college campus. If this is you, there are a number of things you can do to further ensure your safety.

1. Have a written inventory of everything that is in your dorm room. If a theft occurs in your room you'll have

2. Keep the number to campus security on your cell phone if you have one. If not, write it down and place it in your wallet for easy access.

3. Don't wear headphones when walking or jogging outside so that you're able to hear things around you. They can impair your ability to predict or avoid a confrontation.

4. If you're leaving campus, let a roommate or friend know where you're going and how long you plan to be gone. It's good to have someone else be accountable for where you are in case of a kidnapping or worse should happen.

5. College freshmen should decline having a photo and personal information published for distribution to the campus community. Other students can use this information as a target for future crimes.

6. Avoid traveling alone in the dark, stay in groups wherever possible. Usually campuses have well-lit areas, but this is still a good safety measure.

7. Know how to use the objects that are in your possession. For example, a fingernail file can do damage when inflicted the right way. If need be, those MacGyver-like skills may come in handy.

8. Don't be afraid to act crazy if need be. Some victimizers will flee if they feel like the potential victim is a threat to them.

9. Do not leave your valuables in open view.

10. Don't loan out your room key to anyone. Rekey locks if your key is lost or stolen.

11. Do not accept drinks from others. People can easily slip drugs in a beverage and put you in a compromising situation.

12. Be careful about posting your whereabouts on social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, or MySpace. People can use this information to stalk you or plan an attack against you.

13. Have enough money for a taxi and a phone call if needed.

14. Never pick up a hitchhiker.

15. Learn how to defend yourself, verbally and physically. Verbal abuse is just as bad as physical abuse, and sometimes can lead to physical abuse. If you find someone talking to you in a way that you don't like and you feel threatened, let someone know or contact campus security.

Sources:

Campus Security - Department of Education
http://www.ed.gov/admins/lead/safety/campus.html

Campus Security Tips for College Dorms
http://www.tbotech.com/campus-security.htm

Seven tips for campus safety - Security on Campus, Inc.
http://www.securityoncampus.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1563

College Campus Safety Tips - Ezine Articles
http://ezinearticles.com/?College-Campus-Safety-Tips&id=381145

Real Campus Safety Tips | Change Happens: The SAFER Blog
http://www.safercampus.org/blog/?p=227