How to Stay Safe on a College Campus

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Last Updated: March 13, 2026

Walking around campus is something most students do every day, but it is important to stay safe while doing so. Even though college campuses are designed to be secure, risks can still exist, especially at night or in quiet areas. Learning simple safety habits can help you avoid dangerous situations and feel more confident when moving around campus.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Stay Alert and Aware

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1
Look at the local crime rates. Some neighbourhoods, and by extension, their colleges, are worse for crime than others. Look up the crime rates for your area and use that to determine how many precautions you take.
- Just because your area has a low crime rate doesn't make you 100% safe.
2
Pay attention to your surroundings. Keep your head up and notice the people and environment around you. Avoid staring at your phone the whole time or having headphones on at a high volume.

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3
Walk in well-lit areas. Choose paths that are bright and have other people nearby. Avoid dark shortcuts, empty parking lots, or wooded paths.
4
Walk with confidence. Stand tall, look forward, and walk like you know where you are going. Confidence can discourage someone from targeting you.
5
Use open ear headphones. While most people want to listen to music while they walk, it can take away from their ability to stay alert. While using open ear headphones, you can still hear your surroundings.

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Plan Ahead

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Let a friend, roommate, or family member know your destination and when you expect to return. If you don't return when you say you are going to, they can get help to you should something bad happen.
2
Share your location. Multiple apps do this, both free and paid, so use the one that works best for you. Some apps also allow you to report emergencies, so if something happens, you can report it on the app.
Many campuses offer safety escorts, blue emergency call boxes, and campus police patrols. Save your campus police number in your phone.

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Be Prepared

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1
Consider a whistle, personal alarm, or pepper spray (if allowed on campus). Make sure you know how to use them and any legal restrictions surrounding their use.
2
Carry a weapon for self-defense if it is legal. This should be a last resort, but if it is legal in your area and not against campus rules, carry a small weapon with you for defensive purposes.
- This should be an absolute last resort, and carrying a weapon (especially concealed) is illegal in many areas. Look at your local laws and campus rules before you do this.
3
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is. It is okay to leave the area immediately, enter a nearby building, or call for help.
4
Have an emergency plan. Know where emergency phones are, who to contact in case of danger, where the local police station is, and what to do in case you have to protect yourself while waiting for help.
5
Ask if someone can give you a ride. If you don't have a car yourself, ask a friend or a family member if they can give you a ride, as it is safer than just walking (especially in high-crime areas). You can also use a campus shuttle to get to and from your classes, if available.
6
Walk with a friend. Doing this allows you to talk with someone and pay attention to where you are going.

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Tips

Walk with a friend when possible.

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Keep your phone charged.

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Vary your routes and schedules when you can.

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Warnings

Do not walk alone in dark or isolated areas.

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Avoid using your phone or wearing both earbuds while walking.

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Do not ignore uncomfortable feelings; act on them.

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