Campus Safety Tips

One of the last things a student asks before heading to college is, “How safe is the campus?” While college campuses are fairly safe in comparison to the ‘real world,’ you may still find anything from petty theft to murder occurring on college campuses across the nation. So, how do you protect yourself while away from home? Here are a few good tips on how to reduce your chances of becoming a campus crime statistic.

While walking on campus:

• Never walk alone, especially at night.
• Keep on paths that are well-lighted.
• Be aware of safety poles and emergency phones/call buttons.
• Be alert and keep your hands free.
• Add the campus security number as a speed dial option on your phone.
• If you are being followed, run to the nearest building and ask for help or scream ‘Fire’ to draw attention to yourself.

While in your dorm:

• Keep windows and doors locked in your room.
• Don’t open the door to strangers.
• Never place your name on the door.
• Don’t loan your key out to anyone.
• Report suspicious behavior to campus security.

When parking or going to your car:

• Don’t leave valuables in plain sight.
• Keep your keys in your hands; don’t waste time fishing for them in your purse or pockets.
• Keep windows up and doors locked.
• Park in well-lighted areas.

While dating at college:

• Always give the name and contact information of your date to a friend or roommate.
• Go somewhere public with lots of people around; stay away from secluded/remote areas.
• Keep your phone and money with you in case you need to call someone for a ride.
• Never leave your food or drink unattended.
• Avoid excessive alcohol.

You should also never leave your personal items or laptop alone at the library, quad or cafeteria, as it only takes a few seconds for some to walk by and take your items. By following these simple tips, you will make yourself less of a target and reduce your chances of becoming a victim of campus crime.

To learn how safe your college campus is, be sure to check out The Campus Safety and Security Data Analysis Cutting Tool. You can also contact your school directly and ask for crime statistics for the last three years. Any institution receiving federal financial aid must disclose this information as part of the Clery Act. Just remember that campus safety starts with you; be alert, be smart and stay safe.