College should be a fun experience — and it usually is. However, you can’t escape the fact there are dangers, both on campus and beyond. It’s important to take steps to ensure your safety by avoiding situations that could put you at risk, staying alert, and being prepared for anything.
1. Always Lock Your Doors
Locking your doors may feel like effort, especially when you live in a safe area of town. However, it takes mere seconds and significantly improves your safety. Lock your doors whenever you return home and always check them again before you go to sleep.
2. Avoid Becoming Distracted When Out and About
Looking at your phone takes your attention away from your surroundings. It’s more dangerous still if you’re listening to music, as you may be unable to hear what’s happening around you. Although it may be boring, it’s sometimes necessary to go technology free, such as when you’re walking around or waiting for someone in an area that’s mostly deserted.
3. Use a Buddy System at Night
Always try to find someone who can accompany you when you need to go somewhere at night, even if it’s only a short walk. For instance, if you need to stay on campus late, call some friends to see if they can walk you back to your housing. If you need to make a run to the grocery store at night, find out if one of your roommates also needs something and would be willing to accompany you.
4. Only Go to Parties with At Least One Friend Present
Whereas it’s fine to go to campus events on your own, you should only go to parties when people you know are also attending. If all your friends decide to leave, you should, too — even if it’s early and you’re having a good time.
5. Familiarize Yourself with Campus
Take the time to familiarize yourself with all the areas of campus. You’ll likely receive a guided tour when you start college, but you should also take a walk with your roommates or friends to explore fully. Locate landmarks that will allow you to orient yourself.
6. Learn About the Emergency Systems on Campus
It’s likely your campus has emergency features like call buttons and phones. Find out where these are in advance of needing them.
7. Learn Self-Defense
Learning self-defense will mean you can protect yourself in a dangerous situation. Plus, being aware of proper tactics will give you the confidence to stand up for yourself. Find out if you can take classes at college — they may even form an exercise elective.
8. Store Emergency Contacts on Your Phone
If you’re in an accident and are admitted to hospital, the medical staff will check your phone for emergency contacts — these are accessible without unlocking your phone. You may also like to write your emergency contacts in your planner.
Where you live can make a big difference to your safety at college. Students looking for housing in London, Ontario, can find a safe place at Foundry First. Located just 49 steps from campus, you’ll be able to walk to and from your classes and extracurriculars. You’ll also be able to have your own transportation for traveling farther afield — you can store your bike in our bicycle room and leave your car in our covered or uncovered parking. Finally, we have management on site to help you in the case you have any concerns. Apply now for a private room in a three-, four-, or five-bedroom apartment.
