College Campus Safety – 8 Tips to Stay Safe

While it may be funny to see someone walk into a fountain because they were nose-deep in their smartphone, being that unaware of one’s surroundings is dangerous. Whether it’s your student not watching as they walk around or your student not being able to hear because of their headphones, being that tuned out can put them at risk. Remind your student to stay alert when using technology on campus to help protect themselves.

Make sure your student understands that a lack of situational awareness carries risks and is crucial for personal safety. Encourage them to keep their phone accessible, but to avoid focusing on the screen while they walk around. Also, remind them that keeping their audio volume reasonable is a good idea, as it increases the odds that they’ll be able to hear something that may signal a problem.

When it comes to campus safety, being part of a group makes a difference. Students who are walking around the property alone, particularly at night, are more vulnerable. Keeping friends close during social activities is important to ensure safety and to look out for one another.

Ideally, students should embrace the buddy system. By remaining in pairs or groups, no one is alone. Having a trusted friend with you can assist in emergencies or concerning situations, and may decrease the odds that they will be targeted or, at least, ensure they have someone with them should something happen.

Students should also be aware of the role of campus police in responding to suspicious behaviors and ensuring security. It is crucial to know how to contact campus police in case of emergencies.

Though it may irk many parents, parties happen on college campuses. They can be great for students, allowing them to socialize, relax, or blow off steam. But they can also come with certain risks. Staying safe in social settings is important, and students should be proactive and aware to reduce risks.

If your student attends a party, they should never take a drink that was poured by someone else, alcoholic or not, and alternately never leave their drink unattended. There may be no way to determine what is in that cup, and many debilitating drugs aren’t detectable by taste, color, or smell.

If your student feels off after drinking anything, they should immediately get help. Even if it’s just drunkenness, a student is much more vulnerable once they are inebriated, so they should seek assistance from someone they know and trust. It’s also important that they talk to someone if they experience or witness an incident, as having open conversations can provide support and reassurance.

Many schools offer text alerts to students that can send then emergency notifications letting them know of incidents. Through those programs, students will receive a message when they need to be aware of a safety issue. It keeps them informed and allows them to make better choices, including during active incidents and for general safety.

The Public Safety department plays a crucial role in managing emergency situations and addressing safety concerns, ensuring that students are well-protected on campus.

Additionally, colleges increasingly have their own campus safety apps. Many of these can connect directly with security offices during an emergency, sending officers a message and even a GPS location. Some also allow students to report incidents, making it easier to provide critical information that can keep their school safer. These apps are designed to provide easy access to safety resources and emergency reporting, ensuring students can quickly reach help when needed. For more information, check out our blog on the best college campus safety apps to download and how they can enhance your personal security.

Carrying personal defense options is one of the many safety measures students can take to protect themselves. Pepper spray, loud whistles, and other non-lethal devices can be smart to keep on-hand as a college student. They may deter an attacker from proceeding, increase the odds that a bystander will come to a student’s aid, or put a halt to an assault.

Similarly, having some self-defense training can also be wise. It ensures your student knows what to do if someone attacks them, increasing the odds that they’ll take action and find a way to escape the situation. Enrolling in a self defense course is highly recommended, as it empowers students with practical skills and confidence to enhance their personal security.

Campus Resources for Student Safety

Colleges and universities provide an impressive array of resources designed to help students feel secure and supported throughout their campus experience. Campus police and security departments stand ready to respond to emergencies and maintain a visible presence across the grounds, while strategically positioned emergency phones ensure that help is always within reach when students need it most. Many campuses go above and beyond by offering comprehensive self defense classes, reliable safe walk programs, and dedicated support groups specifically designed for survivors of sexual assault, creating a network of care that addresses both prevention and recovery. Should you or someone you know unfortunately become a victim of a crime, the campus victim services office provides a confidential haven where students can access professional support and expert guidance tailored to their specific needs. Students also have access to the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673), which offers additional assistance and resources available around the clock. By taking full advantage of these valuable resources and support systems, students can navigate their college journey with greater confidence, knowing that their safety and well-being are prioritized at every step of their educational experience.