College students are heading to their campuses, many of them for the very first time. These are milestone years—academically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually.
It is a time of great growth, but campus security is a huge issue that students are facing right now. Universities have been in the news a lot lately because of their responses to sexual assault. High rates of sexual assaults are coming to light. This is a huge issue for both on- and off-campus security.
Remind yourself and your college-bound loved ones to stay safe and informed about this important issue. Campus security starts with students.
What Resources Are Available at School?
Whether you’re a student or a parent, it’s important to stay focused on studies and the college experience. Being informed about how your school handles violence is a step in making campus life more secure.
It’s up to the student to familiarize themselves with school policies and procedures. It’s also a good idea to research what resources are available:
- Sexual assault awareness programs. Many schools now require students to complete a program which covers topics like sexual assault, harassment, and stalking.
- Campus police. Put their number in your phone. Students can call for escorts or to report suspicious behavior.
- Off-campus security guards. Does your off-campus housing have security guards? Are there nightly patrols? Consider this before you move in.
- School-specific apps and social media feeds. Many universities have security-specific Twitter accounts, so security updates can be delivered in real-time to smartphones. Some have started designing security-focused apps for their students.
- Healthcare, health education, and mental health counseling provided through the school’s network. You don’t have to wait for a crisis to get help!
- Self-defense training
- Alcohol and drug education
- Crisis hotlines
- Safe sex seminars
- Student unions and associations
Student resources are covered at orientation. Information is available through your school website or in administrative offices on campus.
Common-Sense Behavior On and Off Campus
- Remain aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts
- Use the “buddy system” – don’t walk alone, especially at night
- Use public transportation whenever possible
- Avoid walking in public with your cell phone visible, especially in your hand
- Keep distractions to a minimum and remain in well-lit, well-traveled areas
- Stick to the blue light trail. Many large universities and even smaller colleges have these trails that have a one-button call to the campus security office.
- Keep your keys in your hand when walking to your car or apartment
- Always keep your doors locked
Report suspicious activity to campus police or off-campus security immediately. If you’re between classes or heading to or from campus, this could be someone acting oddly, like following you or another student. Also, if there is someone in a class that shouldn’t be there, or is acting strangely, you should notify your instructor.
Look out for yourself but also those around you.
A Note on Sexual Violence: Both Men and Women Need Caution
Although the vast majority of reported cases involve female victims, sexual violence is not a purely women’s issue. Prevention and awareness involves men and women, both of whom can be victims or perpetrators.
Students must learn how to protect themselves before and when they get to campus. Have a safe and enlightening school year.