It’s all too easy for your campus to feel like a safe bubble away from the troubles of the outside world. It’s just students like you, professors, and some locals going about their day, you think.

However, the reality is that your campus isn’t a bubble. Because, unfortunately, all it takes is one person to cause you harm. So your college is a place where you need to stay safe just as much as anywhere else.

And this message applies the same to guys and girls. Anyone can find themselves in a dangerous situation that threatens their well-being. But just because it can happen to anyone doesn’t mean you can’t increase your safety and limit the risk.

Although it’s not a fun topic, it’s an important one. Here’s how to put yourself in the best position to be safe at college.

1. Avoid walking alone at night

Use the buddy system so you always have a friend with you to walk home from from the library or a night out. Just having one person next to you will make that walk across campus much safer. Or try the campus escort system for a free ride home. And if you’re technically by yourself, walk close to a crowd or group of people so it appears you’re not alone.

2. Be vigilant

Say, for whatever reason, that none of your friends are around and you are forced to walk alone. The worst thing to do in this scenario is to get distracted texting or checking Instagram. Keep your head up and be vigilant. This will help you appear less vulnerable and have vision to react if something suspicious happens.

3. Lock your door

Locking your door is an obvious rule that too often goes undone. Although this move is less to stay out of physical danger and more to protect your property, you allow bad things to happen if you don’t lock your door. This tip also covers the rule to not let sketchy people tailgate you into the dorm.

4. Watch your drink

The date rape drug is often colorless and odorless. Meaning if you set your drink down and look away for a few seconds, that’s all it takes for you to forget the rest of the night. Be safe by not setting your drink down and not accepting drinks from strangers. And if you do lose track of your drink for even a little, throw it away and get a new one.

5. Sign up for emergency alerts

Most colleges have an alert system where the campus police will text or email students about a campus emergency. Please sign up for this. Knowing to take a different route to class or stay inside is something you’ll want to know. Knowledge is power and safety.

6. Have something on you for protection

Pray this never happens, but in preparation of an attack, you’ll best protect yourself by having something on your person. Pepper spray, a car key, or a pen could be enough to protect you from an attack. Do whatever you can to get away or get the attention of someone else to help you.

Brian Robben is the author of the new book How To College. Find more of his college success strategies at www.TakeYourSuccess.com.

We welcome your feedback to our work.

Email:  General Information   |   Prof. David C. Pecoraro

Thank you!

Daniel & David

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6 Steps To Stay Safe At College