School is In! 5 safety tips for your college student

Over the next few weeks colleges all across the US will be accepting their incoming freshmen class, and for freshmen parents, safety is always a top concern. At Bravo1 Protection we have provided security services for a lot of college events, and have had to interfere with some pretty unfortunate situations. Here are some quick tips we recommend you review with your child BEFORE they go to school.

1. Always be aware of your surroundings. When walking on campus, make sure you are alert, OFF your phone and paying attention to what and who is around you. I cannot stress enough, walking to your dorm late at night is not the time to be texting your friend about an upcoming party. Stay on lite sidewalks and walk with a buddy whenever you can. Know where your campuses emergency call boxes are, and where security guards are usually stationed. If you ever feel that someone is following you, walk quickly to the nearest security guard and ask for an escort to your final destination. Consider carrying pepper spray as well, just make sure it's always accessible.
2. Lock your doors. Yes, you probably know everyone on your floor in the most intimate kind of way, but always look your dorm room door, and make sure your roommate does the same.
3. Don't go to parties by yourself. I CANNOT stress this one enough. Don't ever go to a party or stay at a party by yourself after your friends have left. Your friends need to have your back and encourage you to be safe. No matter how nice people at parties may seem, you just never know. If the party gets out of control, you see weapons or generally you feel unsafe, get your friends and leave.
4. Don't get inebriated. I know this one is hard, but it's the truth. When you are inebriated your senses are inhibited, and you will quickly find yourself in a situation that you can't control. Always make sure your friend group has a designated sober monitor who is watching everyone else and keeping an eye on things.
5. Get verbal consent. If you are voluntarily or involuntarily engaging in sexual activity, know that you should only take things further if your partner verbally says yes. Parents- please remind your guys that they need to ask for verbal permission, you can't assume that because a girl is taking off her shirt she is granting permission. Consent cannot legally be given if the person is intoxicated, under the influence or otherwise inhibited. Guys or girls, if you don't feel comfortable in a sexual situation, get up and leave before its too late, no matter what your partner says. Make sure any partner you get involved with is of legal age for consent (17 in SC).

Is your child considering rushing for a fraternity or sorority? Next week we'll talk about questions to ask about the safety of your school's Greek organizations and clubs.