With graduation right around the corner, many of you are getting ready to head off to college and start a new chapter in your life. New school, new campus, new friends, and a new environment. As exciting and enticing as it may be, it’s important to stay safe in these new situations that you face, and there are a few steps that you can follow to help you get out of danger.

1) Always walk with a friend. No matter where you’re going, it is always smart to have a friend with you in case something was to happen. Especially if you’re walking around the campus at night, a friend can be really helpful for protection as well as prevention. Since strength is in numbers, increasing the amount of people with you will in turn reduce the risk of getting harmed or placed in a dangerous situation.

2) Put emergency numbers in your phone. Memorizing the campus safety number can prove to be beneficial in many ways. Whether it’s used for something as simple as a stolen wallet, room key, or textbook or called for a real life emergency, the campus security will always be a help when needed.

3) Get a campus escort whenever possible. Going along with number two, campus security is not only around for emergencies or lost items, they can also be a great preventative resource. If you are ever walking to or from class, especially at night or if you’re alone, feel free to call for a security guard to bring you to where you need to go. Not only will they keep you safe and get you where you want to be, but it’s an excuse to get a free ride around campus.

4) Keep your door locked at all times. Whether this means your car door while you’re sitting in the parking lot, or your dorm room while you’re inside studying, it’s always a smart idea to lock your door to keep you out of harm. This prevents any dangerous person from getting in, and if anyone important really needs you to open the door for them, they can knock.

5) Be aware of your surroundings. If you ever find yourself at a party or any other event where you find yourself around alcohol or drugs, be aware of the substances and people around you. Be smart and make sure that the choices you make will not harm yourself or anyone around you. Never take a drink from anyone as this could increase your risk of a drug being slipped into your drink without you knowing. Most importantly, always have a plan for the night before you get into these situations. Choose a friend and ask them to watch out for you, and figure out how you’ll be getting home and where you’ll go at the end of the night.