College campus safety should be a priority for everyone. From students to campus administrators and even parents, it is important to let students have a safe learning environment. While most colleges offer at least a basic level of security to all students, it does not mean that you should not take your personal security seriously.
There are multiple ways to boost your personal security as a student. From making personal choices to using technology to aid your safety, here are the eight best college safety tips that you need to know about.
1- Use Technology Responsibly
There are benefits to using technology but you should not let yourself get drowned in it. While social media may allow you to stay up to date on what’s happening around you, do not reveal too much personal information on the internet. If you plan on going on a trip with your peers, there is no need to let the whole world know as it becomes an easy way for people to know that your dorm will be left unguarded.
While there are downsides to using technology, there are definitely positives as well. One of the biggest college safety essentials is to have a smartphone. It helps you connect with authorities, friends or family whenever you need to. You can also enable local alerts to be texted in case of fires, power outages or natural calamities. This is particularly important if you are moving to a different city or town for your college studies.
Tips:
- Use local news apps and college safety apps
- Make use of wireless security devices
- Setup a DIY alarm
2- Inform Others of Your Whereabouts
While it is not intuitive to reveal where you are at all times on social media, it helps to have some people know if you are leaving campus on a road trip with friends or going out for official purposes. In case of mishaps, people will know where to look. Accidents can happen and informing your campus administrators or dormitory managers helps a lot.
Make sure that you choose the right people to trust. It helps you to keep an eye out for each other on campus and help each other in case of any mishaps. Informing your parents or other family members who live in the same town is recommended. If you are heading out, make sure that your personal belongings are safeguarded and properly locked to prevent chances of theft.
Tips:
- Inform campus authorities about your travels
- Let family or friends know when you are scheduled to be back
- Leave your belongings locked.
3- Secure Your Gadgets
If you are living with roommates in a dorm, we recommend not showing off your fancy gadgets and other novelties. Use your laptop, smartphone and other gadgets only when you need to. Do not leave any expensive items lying around the room else you may have people nabbing your stuff without you knowing.
You should have a secure drawer to keep all your belongings locked safely. Lock all your items in a luggage bag. If you are heading out for classes, take a mental note of where your belongings are so you can spot anything suspicious when you come back. Use security tools on your gadgets to password protect your gadgets at all times. Always lock your door when you leave and consider adding additional locks if you are allowed to have them for added security. Windows can also be seen as a potential entry point for burglars so do lock them whenever you leave.
Tips:
- Password protect your gadgets
- Lock your belongings in a luggage back
- Use additional locks on your dorm door
4- Invest in Personal Security Devices
Even if you have a robust security system in your college, it is important to have a personal security device for an added level of protection. Mimic GO™ is a great option if you are looking for a truly personal and portable security gadget. You can secure your dorm room and your belongings by setting up sensors and a personal alarm fully synced with phone notifications. You can setup the device without any installation required and it works out of the box with smart speakers and other security peripherals. You can secure your belongings wherever you are with Mimic GO™ and all you need to do is simply attach it to your laptop or backpack.
It is the world’s first truly portable device and offers multiple features like area protection, reminder setup and more. It is tiny and portable, which makes it perfect for students. It is like having a personal alarm that syncs with all of your wireless alarm systems to keep you safe. You do not need to invest in monthly subscription plans to keep the services active as the software is completely free to use without additional charges.
Tips:
- Secure your belongings with a smart personal security gadget
- Ensure you have internet connectivity 24×7 to take advantage of sensors and personal alarms
- Carry your security gadget wherever you go for added safety
5- Self Defense
If you have the means learn self-defense, consider joining martial arts or MMA. It is not only a great way to remain disciplined and train your body to be more flexible and agile, but it can also be useful to protect yourself in case you run into trouble. Self-defense isn’t just about protecting yourself; it is about training your senses and body to be more efficient. It is entirely optional but you can consider it to keep yourself safe and also as a means to gain focus.
You should consider carrying a flashlight at all times as they can come in very handy in tricky situations. Carrying pepper spray or a personal alarm is also a great option. You do not need to carry lethal devices with you and something as simple as a whistle can be very useful at protecting you. If you ever run into unwarranted situations, raise the alarms and inform authorities immediately. Knowing self defense not only helps you protect yourself but also others in case of emergencies.
Tips:
- Consider learning martial arts
- Carry pepper spray, whistles and other non-lethal objects
- Always have emergency numbers at your disposal
6- Be Careful of Your Company
If you are hanging out with friends and get a drink or food offered, say no. Unless you become close with others on campus, stay out of any kind of risky behavior. Stick to campus rules and help your peers if they find themselves in uncomfortable situations.
College parties offer a great time to socialize and have fun but you should also be careful about who you interact with. Predators often drug students to rob or assault them and you do not want to find yourself in such situations. If you feel something is off with the company you keep, break away from groups and inform authorities immediately. Always adhere to all college safety tips given out by your college. Do not let strangers into your dorm unless they have the right to enter or you may find yourself at the wrong end of campus authorities as well.
Tips:
- Refuse food and drink from strangers
- Do not compromise your safety
- Help your peers if they are in uncomfortable situations
7- Beware of Fire Hazards and Emergency Exits
A lot of students ignore security protocols that are in place in case of campus emergencies. All campuses have some form of security protocol for emergency situations. Read the security handbook to find out more about emergency exits and what to do in case of a fire. In case you ever need to vacate your campus, you will have an idea of where to head to.
You should also take a look at what security measures are in place in case of hazards. A lot of buildings do not have the right security tools. If you feel that you need to invest in alarms of personal security gadgets to protect yourself consider doing so to keep yourself safe.
Tips:
- Learn more about campus security protocols
- Focus on dorm security and buy essentials
- Invest in a college safety device
8- Dorm Security
If you are living in a dorm it is important to have a proper dorm room security setup. Consider getting new locks installed when you move in. Talk to security personnel to know the ins and outs of the dorm rules and always abide by them. If you notice any suspicious activity, raise a burglar alarm immediately.
If you have any of your items stolen, do not go around questioning your roommates and other dorm residents as it only leads to conflict. Instead, bring it up with the respective authorities to get your grievances addressed. If needed, contact the police as well. Before you move into a new dorm, always ask about security protocols and how they plan on tackling burglaries and security breaches. If any security incidents have happened in the past, ask the authorities how they tackled them to gain more insight on your dorm’s security practices.
Tips:
- Inform authorities in case of a burglary
- Ask about rules in the dorm
- Install new locks in your dorm room
Conclusion
Life as a student can be difficult but having a sense of security with the right tools and self-defense techniques can help a lot. Keep yourself safe and behave responsibly to avoid attracting any negative attention. In case of burglaries or thefts, contact authorities immediately for help.