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Student reading book on campus.
Soon it will be time for many Alexandria high school grads to take the next step in their education and head off to college. In addition to signing up for classes, getting a fall wardrobe together, decorating dorm rooms and meeting new friends, living away from home is a big adjustment. One thing that is helpful is knowing how to stay safe in a new environment away from home.
Virginia colleges prioritize student safety and offer a variety of tips and resources. The following are links to college safety networks:
George Mason University's Mason Ready
James Madison University Student Safety
University of Virginia Student Safety
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Tech Safety & Security
Virginia Wesleyans Campus Security
Washington & Lee Public Safety
Don't see your college here? Ask your university if they have an app or a student safety Website where you can get information tied to your school.
Here's a comprehensive overview based on common advice from institutions across the Commonwealth:
General Awareness & Prevention:
Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to what's going on around you, especially when walking alone.
Trust your instincts: If a situation feels uncomfortable or suspicious, leave immediately. Don't worry about what others might think.
Avoid isolated areas: Stick to well-lit and well-trafficked areas, particularly at night. Avoid shortcuts through dark or secluded places.
Walk with others: Whenever possible, walk with friends or in groups, especially after dark.
Tell someone your plans: Let a friend or family member know where you're going, who you're with, and when you expect to return.
Report suspicious activity: Immediately notify campus police or security of any suspicious persons, vehicles, or activities.
On-Campus & Residence Hall Safety:
Lock your doors and windows: Always secure your dorm room or apartment door, even if you're just stepping out for a moment. Don't prop open exterior doors.
Don't let strangers in: Never allow unknown individuals to follow you into residence halls or apartments.
Know emergency exits and equipment: Familiarize yourself with fire alarm pull stations, extinguishers, and emergency exits in your buildings.
Don't leave valuables unattended: Never leave laptops, cell phones, backpacks, purses, or other valuable items unsecured in common areas, libraries, or dining halls.
Secure cash and cards: Keep cash, checkbooks, and credit cards in a safe place. Carry only small amounts of cash.
Report lost or stolen property immediately.
Walking and Transportation:
Use campus escort services: Many universities offer night escorts or shuttle services (like UVA's UTS OnDemand or VCU's RamSafe) for safe transportation after dark.
Use blue light phones/emergency call boxes: Familiarize yourself with the location of emergency phones throughout campus, which provide direct contact to campus police.
Consider not wearing headphones: Wearing headphones can limit your awareness of your surroundings.
Wear reflective clothing: If you must be out at night, wear reflective clothing to increase visibility.
Vary your route and schedule: Avoid predictable patterns when walking alone.
Rideshare safety: When using rideshare services, always check the license plate and ask the driver to confirm your name.
Vehicle & Bicycle Safety:
Keep your vehicle locked: Always lock your car doors when parked and when driving.
Don't leave valuables in plain view: Store valuables in the trunk or out of sight.
Park in well-lit areas: Choose parking spots near light posts whenever possible.
Maintain your car: Keep your car in good running condition to avoid breakdowns.
Plan your route: Especially for long or unfamiliar trips.
Never pick up hitchhikers.
Bicycle security: Invest in a strong lock (like a U-lock), lock both the bike frame and wheels to a bike rack, and obey all traffic laws. Consider registering your bicycle with campus police.
Digital & Online Safety:
Computer security: Don't leave laptops unattended. Record serial numbers and use anchor security devices.
Manage your online life: Be cautious about sharing personal information and your location on social media. Adjust privacy settings and limit accessible details.
Emergency Preparedness:
Know how to contact emergency services: Dial 911 for immediate emergencies. Familiarize yourself with campus police non-emergency numbers.
Download campus safety apps: Many universities offer mobile apps (like UVA Ready Safety App or VSU's RAVE Guardian App) that provide access to safety resources, emergency contacts, and direct tip submission.
Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures: Know what to do in various emergency situations (e.g., fire alarms, active threats). Some colleges offer "Run, Hide, Fight" training.
Heed emergency alerts: Pay attention to text messages, emails, and other alerts from the university, as they contain important safety information.
Sexual Assault Prevention:
Trust your gut: If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, leave the situation.
Travel in groups: Predators are often deterred by groups.
Stay in touch: Always let someone know where you are and when to expect you back. Keep your phone charged.
"No" is a complete sentence: Don't hesitate to use "no" as justification for leaving a situation.
Party smart: Guard your drinks and food, avoid open containers, and have a plan for sober transportation.
If you see something, say something: Intervene if you stumble across a questionable situation. Contact an RA, campus police, or 911 if necessary.
Additional Resources:
Many Virginia colleges offer self-defense classes, mental health services, and specific resources for reporting sexual assault, bias, or harassment.
The Virginia Center for School and Campus Safety (VCSCS) provides training, resources, and technical assistance to higher education institutions across the state.
Remember, common sense and proactive measures are key to staying safe on a college campus.
