For many kids, going to college is a new adventure. Many students are going to college for the first time. While college and university campuses are generally safe, it is possible for things to happen. You can reduce the chances of it happening to your campus by being prepared. Let’s take a look below at safety tips and things to be aware of if you are staying in a residence hall or dorm, or renting an apartment near campus.
Campus Safety begins with knowing your campus
Get to know your campus. You can find out the crime statistics of colleges by doing some research. Although it is unlikely that it will be significant, it is still important to know what to watch out for.
Find out the level of security at your school. Is there a campus police station or unarmed security officers? Is there a station or post? Find out where to go if you have an emergency or need to report something.
Learn about the layout of your campus. If you live on campus, what are the best ways to get there? You should choose routes that are well-lit at night and well-populated.
Find out where the cameras are located on campus. If something does occur, they will assist law enforcement. These cameras can also be used to teach criminals how to avoid these areas. Some cameras can be monitored in real time, so security personnel may be able see what’s going on and can send help right away.
Always have options. Have backup plans in case of an emergency, such as a fire, protest, or other situation.
Even if nothing is happening, it doesn’t hurt if you change your routine. You’ll be able to identify alternative routes if you have to, and you won’t be stuck in a rut. If someone is watching for potential victims, mixing things up can lead to bad intentions.
Stay alert and pay attention
The best way to be safe is to pay attention. Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of what is and isn’t allowed. You will quickly get the feel of the school and be able to identify the staff and students.
Pay attention to anyone who stands out. They might have legitimate business on campus. Know your fellow students. Be aware of who isn’t.
Be aware of things that can affect your awareness. EarPods, for example, can block you from hearing what’s happening around you. Or staring at your phone while you walk. This includes alcohol and recreational drugs. Victimization is often caused by things that affect your ability to focus and judge.
You’re probably familiar with the expression “If you see anything, say something.” This doesn’t necessarily have to be a terrorist attack. Call 911 if you spot someone or something out of place.
If you don’t feel the issue is serious enough to warrant a 911 call, your school likely has a non-emergency campus security number or campus police number. They can send an officer to inspect it if they are aware of potential problems.
Don’t do it alone
When you travel, especially at night, it is a good idea to go with friends. This is doubly true if your friends have had a few beers. It is a good idea to have someone in your friend circle stay sober, even if they don’t drive. Alcohol can seriously affect your ability to process your surroundings, and your judgment.
Let someone know where you are going if you can’t go out with your friends. You can text or call your family members to let them know where you are and what you are doing. If you don’t like texting, leave a note for your roommate.
You might consider sharing a location-sharing app to your family and friends. This will allow them to see where you are. This is especially important if you are late to get home. My daughter uses Apple’s Share my location feature, as well as third-party apps such Life 360 at college.
Protective Tools
Check out your school’s weapon policy. While some schools may allow concealed carry, it’s not common. Knives are also often prohibited. Pepper spray is often allowed, as well as stun guns and TASERs.
Tactical pens and key chain defense tools allow you to be creative. Improvised weapons are also possible. Personal Defense World has many articles about improvised weapons that you can look at for inspiration. You might also consider training in martial arts if you are so inclined.
Your cell phone is a must-have tool. This is not a problem for most people. It is essential to have a way of getting help. You must have your phone with to use any of the above-mentioned location-sharing services.
A whistle is another low-tech method to get help. Although the term “rape whistle” may seem quaint, it is effective in attracting attention. It’s lightweight, inexpensive, and easy-to-carry on your keyring, backpack, messenger bag, or other small items. It doesn’t require batteries.
A flashlight is a great tool. Although your phone may have a light, I mean one with a staggering number of lumens. It can be used to locate dark areas in your surroundings and temporarily blind an attacker.
Some models come with a strobe but you can use a bright light or any other light. A tactical-style light may include a crenelated lens bezel that can be used as an impact weapon. You should not allow phones, whistles, or flashlights to be carried anywhere.
Make sure you have a safety plan
Plan for what might happen if something goes wrong. Remember that you are not the police. Your job is to keep everyone safe. It may mean that you have to flee rather than fight. That’s fine. Report it, get away, be safe.
If you have to fight, your goal should be to break contact. It is better to be a good witness rather than to get hurt or killed trying to win a fight.
If you are unable to break contact, you can use all the tools at your disposal to gain an edge and make noise. Your attacker doesn’t like noise and time. They want what they’re trying do to happen as quickly as possible and with the least amount of notice.
The more attention you attract, the better it will be for you. If you are able to manage it, it is important to stay in well-lit areas.
If you feel someone is following you or making you uncomfortable, you should go to the nearest police station. If you’re near a security office or police station, go there. It is common to just approach these areas and be a danger to your safety.
Contact campus security to let them know where your are. If you aren’t sure if you want security involved in your campus, call your friends and ask if they can meet you.
College should be fun for everyone, despite the stress of the curriculum. Do not let the possibility of bad things overwhelm your mind. There are ways to reduce the likelihood of bad things happening to you.
It takes a little bit of awareness to make a difference. This, along with basic precautions and a bit of gear, will allow you to navigate college campuses safely.
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Personal Defense World published the article Campus Safety: How to Keep Yourself Safe in Higher Learning Halls appeared first on Personal Defense World.
