Your parents have taught you the basic rules of being safe right? Or at least you have heard them somewhere. Always look both ways before you cross the street. Never get a ride from a stranger. These are rules that you probably grew up learning. But, now, as you are getting ready to go to college, or if you are already there, especially if you study abroad, there are some safety tips that you should abide by when in college. College is a great place to make friends that will last your whole life. There are also people that you may want to steer clear of. Because college is where a lot of people want to “experiment”, keep yourself safe. Avoid situations where you could possibly get hurt. You want to enjoy our college experience to the fullest, you don't want it to be marred by placing yourself in a compromising position.These are basic safety tips, but will really help keep you safe.
10 Ways to Stay Safe in College
1) Lock your apartment doors
This is a very simple rule that most college students should always follow. In college, people like to leave their doors open so they can come in and out. What most people don't realize is that they are also inviting strangers to come in and out. Always lock your apartment doors, no matter how much it may feel like a hassle. When your neighbors are robbed because they left their doors open, you'll be thankful that you locked your doors. An extra 5 seconds to lock your doors will prevent you from getting anything stolen.
2) Keep your keys safe
This is just as important as locking your doors. It is very easy for people to make copies of keys and give them to people to use to get into an apartment. You don't want extra copies of your keys floating around. You will also want to keep your key safe, don't loose it. Put it on a lanyard or a keychain so you don't misplace it.
3) Lock your laptop
You don't want anyone to steal your laptop, get a lock for it. You'll be glad you did.
4) Stay with a buddy
The buddy system will never fail. Stay with friends to stay safe.
5) Know the number of campus security
If you need a ride home, call campus security.
6) Listen to your gut
If a party just doesn't seem like a good idea, don't go. It's ok to spend a Friday night every once in a while at home.
7) Carry cash
If you need to take a cab for a quick getaway back to your apartment, it is always good to have cash on hand.
8) Make sure someone knows where you are
Tell your roommates that you are going on a date, or what party you are going to. It is always good someone knows where you are.
9) Take a self defense class
With the electives that you can take, make the best of it and take a self defense class. You will learn valuable skills to keep yourself safe.
10) Stay on a well-lit path
If you are walking at night, because you are coming back from a party or even work, make sure that you keep yourself safe by staying on the lit path. Keep your head up and don't be afraid to look people in the eye. Even if a darker way is quicker, it is always a better idea to just take the extra time and go on the lit path. People are less likely to do something to you where everyone can see what is going on.
If you follow these tips, you can stay safe and avoid a lot of issues that come up when you are in college. You want college to be the best years of your life, by using these tips, you will stay safe and enjoy your college experience to the fullest.
About the Author
Neltje Maynez is a freelance writer for MyCollegesandCareers.com. My Colleges and Careers helps people determine if an online education is right for them and helps them understand which colleges are best for them and their specific situation.
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