5 tips for Back to School Safety

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We all know the feeling, a long summer filled with vacations to the beach and hanging out with friends. A few months without homework or studying for exams when all of a sudden you’re back buying textbooks and registering for classes. It is easy to stay focused on your GPA and to lose track of the realities that are around you, so it’s good to know these five simple tips about campus safety before you return to school.
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1. Know your school’s layout and where the call boxes are located – most campuses have emergency boxes where if in distress you can make a quick call to police and have an emergency light attached that acts as a siren. Knowing these locations and where the most lit and populated paths are can be the key to staying away from harm.
2. Carry pepper spray – cheap, highly effective, easy to use. Pepper spray can be a lifesaver and should be carried in a fashion that is easily accessible. Buying two cans and practicing with one on a makeshift target while being distracted is a great simulation. Never underestimate the power of pepper spray and use it in instances where you are threatened and need to get away!
3. Utilize the buddy system – if it’s coming back from the library late at night or getting gas past sundown, always have a friend with you if possible. Not only do you become a harder target in numbers, but an extra pair of eyes never hurt. Also downloading apps such as BuddyTracker allows friends to see your location even when your GPS is turned off.
4. Be self aware – in today’s age, smartphones are in our hands more than anything else. It is easy to become distracted from your surroundings as you scan through social media or texting your friend. Always be conscious and attentive of your environment.
5. Maintain self control – if you decide to go out and celebrate a successful exam or tailgate as you cheer on your favorite team, do so in moderation. Don’t become too inebriated where you are more prone to bad decisions. The more intoxicated you get the higher your percentage is to become a victim. Have fun but set limits and stick to them.

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