Campus Safety Tips for Parents
When my older teen daughters left home for college, it was a significant milestone for both of us. The excitement of new opportunities is often accompanied by worry about their safety.
As a parent, it’s natural to feel anxious, but there were steps I took to help ensure my daughters safety on campus.
Here are some supportive tips to guide you through this transition:
1. Research Campus Safety
Start by researching the college's campus safety protocols.
- Look for information about security services, emergency procedures, and campus crime rates.
- Most colleges have this information readily available online.
Knowing that your teen's campus has a robust safety system can provide peace of mind.
2. Encourage Safety Awareness
Encourage your teen to be aware of their surroundings. This includes the following;
- walking in well-lit areas,
- avoiding shortcuts through isolated places, and
- staying alert when using headphones or electronic devices
Awareness is key to avoiding potential dangers.
3. Establish Regular Communication
Set up a regular communication schedule with your teen.
- Whether it's daily texts or weekly calls, consistent communication can help you stay connected and know they're safe.
This also provides an opportunity for them to share any concerns they might have.
(My daughters and I decided that Sundays were best. )
4. Discuss Campus Resources
Ensure your teen knows about the campus resources available to them. This includes;
- campus security,
- emergency blue light phones,
- shuttle services, and
- safety escort programs
Encourage them to utilize these resources, especially when traveling at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Contact us now to discover how we can assist you in navigating the challenges of guiding your teens.
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5. Emphasize the Buddy System
Encourage your teen to use the buddy system when going out at night or to unfamiliar places.
- Having a friend with them can provide an extra layer of safety.
This is especially important for parties or other social events.
6. Discuss Emergency Plans
Talk with your teen about emergency plans.
- what to do's in case of:
- fire, severe
- weather,
- or other emergencies
- Knowing the location of emergency exits and assembly points can be crucial in a crisis.
7. Encourage Smart Use of Social Media
- Encourage your teen to avoid sharing personal information or their exact location in real-time.
- Remind them that once something is posted online, it can be difficult to remove completely.
Social media is a powerful tool, but it can also pose risks.
8. Promote Personal Safety Tools
Consider providing your teen with personal safety tools
- a whistle,
- pepper spray,
- or a personal alarm
These tools can offer an added sense of security, especially when they are alone at night.
9. Foster Open Communication
Lastly, create an environment where your teen feels comfortable discussing safety concerns with you. This openness will help them feel supported, knowing they can turn to you with any issue.
While it's natural to be concerned about your teen's safety as they head off to college, these supportive tips can help ease your anxiety and ensure they're equipped to navigate their new environment safely.
By staying informed, maintaining open communication, and encouraging safety awareness, you can support your teen during this important transition.
Author:
Dr. Michelle Lloyd
Transition Success Coach
