Going off to college is one of the scariest things that you have to do early in life. You are likely moving off on your own for the first time, and now find yourself responsible for not only your needs, but for your safety as well. If you live in a dorm on campus, then you are a bit safer. If you live off campus, whether alone or with friends, you need to take some extra precautions to make sure that you stay safe from criminals and other dangers. Here are some tips for staying safe while living off campus:
The first and most obvious things that you need to do is get a roommate. While many people enjoy living alone in college, the fact remains that you are safer with someone else around. If having a roommate is an option, then by all means take it. If not, then make sure you get to know your neighbors well. They can be extended roommates once you are familiar enough with them.
The next thing you should do is familiarize yourself with all the local emergency centers. At a minimum, you should know where the closest police, fire and hospital is located and have their numbers on hand. Certainly 911 is available in an emergency. Still, it helps to know where your safety nets are in case of an emergency.
When you move off campus, make sure your friends know where you live and how to get there. In an emergency, you may not be able to describe your location easily. Have some trusted friends that can get to you in an emergency.
Take some time to look over your new home or apartment. Are there easy entrance points for burglars? These areas are low windows, sliding glass doors, and areas that have windows but are hidden from view at the street. Make sure that they all have reinforced locks and alarms if possible. Radio Shack sells single door and window alarms that are inexpensive yet highly effective. Invest in some and put them on the windows and doors that are high risk.
When you leave your home, try to do so at times when you are with someone else. If this is not possible, then make sure you have someone that knows where you are going and when. While we do not like to think about the dangers of rape and kidnapping, we still must consider them in today’s world.
Being ignorant to the dangers is a mistake you do not want to make. Give yourself every chance to handle a situation if it were to occur. It is a good idea to get one of those alarms that you can carry. Have it in your hand and ready when you go to your car, or go outside.
