Crime Prevention at College

College is an exciting and transformative time but the transition from home to living independently can be overwhelming. The College Safety Guide available on The Best Colleges website, https://www.thebestcolleges.org/resources/student-safety/ , provides comprehensive information on college safety including how to keep choose a safe campus, apps that can keep you safe and online safety tools.  Here are some safety tips from the Guide:

• Go out in groups with people you trust: When you go out, especially at night, it’s a good idea to do so with several friends. If no one is available, make sure to stay in populated areas.
• Be alert: Always be aware of your surroundings and the people around you. Note the location of emergency call boxes and learn the safest route to your destination. When in unfamiliar areas, keep to well-lit paths and look for safe zones.
• Don’t be afraid to be rude: If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, then put some distance between you and them. Don’t go anywhere with someone who gives you the creeps, even if it’s awkward to tell him or her to leave you alone.
• Know your limits: If you’re out drinking, pay attention to how much alcohol you consume. Know how much is too much and give yourself a safe cut-off. Don’t accept drinks from strangers, and don’t leave your drink unattended.
• Be an escort for someone in need: If someone calls to ask if you can walk them home, don't hesitate. They are calling because they are likely in an uncomfortable situation, and it's important to know that people will do the same for you.
• Take a self-defense course: A self-defense course teaches you how to punch and where to kick. Many classes teach assertiveness, verbal techniques, situational awareness, and safety strategies.
• Take advantage of campus escort programs: Many campuses have some sort of escort service. This might include after-hours shuttles or campus employees who walk student’s home; a background check is commonly required to be a student escort. These services are usually free and are offered at late hours.
• Carry a whistle, pepper spray or personal alarm: Whistles and alarms alert the public to your location and scare potential attackers. Pepper spray causes temporary blindness by inflaming the mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, mouth, and lungs, momentarily stunning an attacker. Most pepper sprays also leave a mark, which officers can see by using a black light, ensuring the victim is caught. These devices are made in small sizes which can fit into a purse or pocket. Note that there are laws controlling the sale of pepper spray (https://www.pepperspraycenter.com/newblog/new-york-law-on-pepper-sprays/), and it should be used with caution especially on a windy day.
• Be aware of your social media settings: Be careful how much information you post about yourself online in public forums. Check your privacy settings to make sure your friends are the only ones who can see your posts.
• Be careful online: Posting too much personal information on social media and accepting friends you don’t know can be dangerous.

This article was written by members of the Police Advisory Committee as part of the Community Information Project.