Parents are often more nervous about their children heading off to college than their kids are. If you are anxious about your child being on their own for the first time, consider going over these tips for college campus safety.
Always lock the door
Freshmen make fast friends in the dorms, and are often trusting of those around them. Emphasize that the door should be locked every time they leave their room. It should also be secured at night, just as at home, and even if it’s just to head to the communal bathroom.
Save the number for campus security
There could be moments when your child feels unsafe. For example, they might want someone to walk them back to their door after a late-night study session. Campus security can be called as an escort. They should also have their number on hand in case of an emergency.
Download a campus safety app
There are numerous campus security apps that can be downloaded on smartphones. The exact features of these apps vary, but they usually make it easier for students to interact with their school’s campus security. For example, some allow them to set a time limit for getting back to their dorm, and if they are not there in time, campus security is called.
Listen to those gut feelings
When students are thrust into a new environment on their own, they’re usually concerned with making friends and fitting in. For this reason, it becomes easy to ignore gut feelings. Emphasize how important it is to follow their instinct and discuss how to get out of bad situations.
Take time to check in
Chances are slim that your child will want to check in with you every time they go somewhere, but they should get in the habit of always letting someone know where they will be. Encourage your child to choose someone — a friend back home, a campus friend, roommate or sibling—and check in with them before they leave campus or go to class. This way, there will always be at least one person who knows your child’s whereabouts.
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