US College Safety Resources: Tools to Stay Safe in College Campus

Do you know, per the federal laws in the US, each education institution there should reveal its campus crime figures? Sounds strange? But, it is a necessary step taken to curb any crime on the institution's campus and increase student safety. This data may be available on the institution’s official website or through the Campus Safety and Security Data Analysis Cutting Tool of the Department of Education. 

College safety has been a perennial concern worldwide, including in the US. If these concerns plague you or your parents, you should start by evaluating various institutions' safety statistics. You will find reports offered by several institutions in this regard. 

That is not all; you should also keep an eye out for preventive measures taken by colleges to keep their students safe. However, what matters most is that students should be able to reach out to vital safety resources on campus whenever needed. Here is a guide to some must-know US college safety resources you should pay attention to. 

Types of US College Safety Resources 

The US colleges and universities offer safety resources to prepare students for emergencies and ensure safety on campus. Students are aware of these resources at new student orientation, where law enforcement officers and college/university staff offer safety tips to international students. 

The Emergency Management for Higher Education (EMHE) grant program extends its support to higher education institutions’ projects designed to develop, review and improve, and fully integrate campus-based all-hazards emergency management planning efforts.

Here are some of the various safety resources available across campuses in the US. These can be your go-to solutions if you wish to report something or need help urgently. 

• Campus Law Enforcement- 

Several institutions in the country have their own law enforcement officers or police forces on campus. These officers help students in several scenarios, like ensuring adequate security at events and investigating crimes or unwarranted incidents. For instance, sworn police officers make up the law enforcement team at the University of Buffalo-SUNY, offering similar services as any municipal or local police force. Students can immediately report incidents or crimes to campus law enforcement divisions or police forces. 
Some colleges also get police officers to participate in campus events, helping international students get more comfortable approaching them with queries or requests for help.

• International Student Services Office- 

The international student services office is a great safety tool for students. For example, the Office of International Services at Indiana University-Bloomington regularly sends informational emails, videos, and other resources to its international students. The office helps students get more information and assistance about everything, including campus safety. 

• Dean of Students Office- 

The resources may not always come with ‘international students’ in their titles. Once you start studying at an institution, you also are eligible for every benefit/ service that domestic students get, in addition to the services specifically for international students. 

The Dean of Students Office at an institution helps address student safety and welfare queries while directing students toward other helpful resources. It may be a valuable safety tool for tackling issues like discrimination and harassment. 

• Student Counseling Center- 

Good mental health ensures a healthy and happy academic experience on campus. College is stressful, particularly for international students, due to cultural differences and other aspects. Student counseling centers can help with group and individual therapy and other support solutions. These confidential services enable students to open up about their problems easily. 

• Safe-Ride Solutions and Other Services- 

The campus authorities issue several guidelines for students’ safety, including not walking alone after dark. Many institutions provide safe-ride or shuttles to pick up students and help them reach home safely. 

Some even have individual escort services for students (on call) where security or police officers or even trained fellow students walk with them to their residences. Several institutions also have systems that alert students with emails or texts during major emergencies. Students can register on college websites to get these notifications. 

• Resident Advisers- 

They are a valuable resource for students on US campuses, helping student workers maintain and supervise college dormitories. They receive training to assist new students in seamlessly adapting to life on campus while directing them toward additional support and resources whenever necessary.

Campus Safety Tips

Here are some safety tips that you can follow to ensure campus safety: 

1. You should plan your route to avoid uncomfortable situations where you do not have access to transportation facilities or do not know the route. 
2. Avoid wearing precious jewelry or carrying excessive cash if traveling alone or on an unknown path. 
3. Stick to a trusted group of friends for regular commutes and journeys back home. 
4. Always keep a friend informed of your location. 
5. Avoid dark and secluded areas. 
6. Do not be in a hurry to meet and go out with strangers.
7.  If you are partying with your college friends or elsewhere, be alert and watchful of your surroundings. 

Following these tips will keep you safe and sound, ensuring a fulfilling college experience. 

Conclusion

Safety first is the best approach when you are a new student embarking on your college/university journey in the US. You should note these safety tools/resources to better tackle diverse situations and emergencies.