Sadly, these days, it goes without saying that crime on almost every college campus is prominent. While some cases are more extreme than others and many colleges take precautions like the blue light security boxes to keep their students safe, there is always still a risk. Often, students find themselves walking alone at night or even during the day, putting them in a situation that could result in an unwanted visitor.
With new organizations forming such as “Make Rape Legal” and other crimes being heavily reported, it is important that we as college students or concerned members of the community take action and find ways to stay safe.
First and foremost, use the buddy system. In college, it is a rarity that a girl goes out on her own. Usually, there is always a system implemented referred to as the buddy system. It is commonly seen when girls are at a party and 4-10 of them pile into a bathroom at one time. Guys might think it is a little strange, but we do it for our own protection, and so should they. Use this system everywhere, whether you are walking across the street or across the whole campus. You can never be too safe, and it is important to remember that there is strength in numbers. Your probability to be harmed decreases greatly when you are with other people. Not to mention, it is always good to have a friend around with you whether you’re going out, grabbing food, or even just going to the gym. Having someone who is looking out for you can help you avoid the mean girl that would single you out if you were alone, be your ride home, keep someone from slipping something in your drink, or just a friend to sit and eat with to keep you company. The reality of life today is that as safe as we may feel, there is always a chance that we are in harm’s way. It is better to be safe than sorry.
There is without a doubt some type of security on your college campus. Whether it is a hired security team or a real police station, you should be knowledgeable on who to call and what actions to take if you find yourself in an uncomfortable or dangerous situation. With that being said, it is important to remember that these people are here to help you, and if at any point you feel that something is not right, it is absolutely OK to call them. Again, it is better to be safe than sorry. If your campus has blue box lights, you should know how to use them and get a policeman to walk with you at night if you are by yourself.
Next, you should remember to be aware of your surroundings. When you are alone, you should be constantly aware of where you are and make sure that your friends are aware too. You should never find yourself in a place that none of your other friends or family members know you were going to. In addition, be vigilant and observant and notify a security team if you see suspicious activity. Putting in headphones or being on the phone while walking is distracting and dangerous because it takes you away from your surroundings and gives an attacker a perfect chance to strike.
It might be in your best interest to invest in a can of mace/pepper spray or even take self-defense classes. We should always be in the mindset that we are targets and be ready to defend ourselves if the time comes. Having knowledge of how to defend oneself can only be beneficial.
With new technology, there are phone apps such as “Circle of 6,” “CampusSafe,” and “Guardly,” to name a few, that work to protect students from being put in harm’s way.
There are many platforms in which action can be taken to help decrease and even stop most crime on not only college campuses, but everywhere. It is up to us to take action and know how we can keep ourselves and others safe and remember to never go anywhere alone!
