With college headed back into session, it’s not surprising to see numerous reports focused on ensuring safety on campus. Yesterday, we related some of the ways that incoming students can lock down their electronic devices, but today we’d like to turn your attention to advice from Morehead State Police on ensuring personal safety.
The Chief of Police explains that one of the most important steps a student can take is to keep their valuables properly protected. Rather than simply leaving electronics or even textbooks splayed out in the backseat of a car, they need to be placed in the trunk or otherwise covered. The same goes for a dormitory. Valuables should be kept out of sight, and when you’re not going to be there yourself, you should lock the door so intruders can’t step in.
Students should also have someone to walk with at night so that they can rest assured they won’t be accosted. Groups are far safer than traveling alone. Particular caution should be paid to areas like parking lots and certain hidden corners of campus. Students should get in the habit of scanning their surroundings to look for potential dangers.
In today’s day and age of social media, it’s tempting to post where you’re going to be at all times. But if a thief gets ahold of that message, he or she can break into your room, knowing full well that you’ll be gone. By the same token, avoiding leaving notes on your door that likewise explain where you’re going to be.