College Campus Safety Tips

Going to college is a daunting experience all on it's own - perhaps this is the first time you have lived on your own, and suddenly you are responsible for taking care of yourself. When you add into the equation that campus crime is unfortunately common, and getting an education can seem daunting - even before you enter the lecture hall. Here's some tips to staying safe so you can focus on other things:

Choosing a School:

- When you are considering colleges, take the neighborhood into consideration. An area may seem fun for a weekend visit when you are visiting a college, but consider how you'll feel when it is the neighborhood you are living in. If you will always be uncomfortable in the area, you may want to select a different school.

- Walk around the campus when classes are in session and other times you'll be traversing campus - is there good security and lighting? Are there shuttles available at night?

- Assess the dorms as well as the campus - see what kind of security measures are in place where you will be living.

General:

- Don't flaunt your valuables, but make sure you won't get hurt if they are taken from your person. Put bluntly, if you have an iPod, the earbud cords will give away that you have a valuable, thereby making you a target. Make sure that if this happens, you won't get hurt by the cords - pull your iPod in front and to each side to check - if you pull the earbuds out before the cord touches your neck, you will be ok in the event your iPod is stolen. Along the same line, don't drape the strap of your messenger bag around your neck.

- Stay on well-populated routes - a shortcut through a deserted area at night isn't a good idea.

- Always lock your dorm room/suite door, and make sure you have a roommate who does the same. If you don't trust your roommate, ask for a roommate switch on the basis of safety.

- If your college offers e-mail or cell phone notifications when a crime has been committed on campus, sign up. This will help you be aware and alert if there is still a threat to you.

- Think seriously if you want your picture and/or information to be included in the Freshman directory. Do you necessarily want your picture, your name, and your residence/phone number listed for strangers to see? That is a lot of information in the wrong hands.

In case you have a problem:

- If someone is mugging you, do not resist handing over the item. You can get another iPod and credit cards can be replaced - it's not worth risking your life for.

- Screaming helps your chances of not being assaulted.

- Keep certain numbers on speed dial - 911, campus police, a friend, and your family.

- Be sure to report to campus policy in addition to 911, so as to warn other students.

Campus crime is scary. If you are the victim of a crime at any point, bear in mind that criminal acts happen regardless of how careful you are, and it isn't your fault. Common sense and tips like these can reduce your chance of being a target, so be aware and stay safe!