While dark and deserted places such as alleyways are believed to be more frequented by muggers, it is not unheard of to encounter robbers and snatchers at relatively busy places like parking lots and transit stops.
Staying safe between the parking lot and your dorm room is essential for college students who may be walking to their destination in areas with low visibility or high crime rates. But how do you do it?
Tips To Enhance Your Safety between the Parking Lot and Your Dorm
Whether you stay off-campus or in the college residences, this guide will provide helpful tips and advice on how to ensure you stay safe when walking to your dorm room!
1. Always Know Your Surroundings - Blind Spots, Low Light Areas, and Noisy Corners
As you move from the parking lot to your dorm room, it's important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for any potential blind spots or areas that may be poorly lit or too noisy for you to hear anyone coming up on you.
Be sure to take notice of who is around you when walking alone at night. If there are people nearby that appear suspicious or make you feel uneasy, do not hesitate to cross the street before continuing on your route home.
2. Keep Valuables Secure and Out of Sight
It's also crucial to make sure that any valuables or items of value are kept stored away and out of sight when moving between locations, especially at night. Whether you keep them in a secure bag or simply tucked into an inner pocket, the fewer temptations there are for someone looking to steal something, the better!
Make sure not to carry around anything more than necessary – leaving your laptop unsupervised on campus overnight can be dangerous if it falls into the wrong hands. Make sure your belongings always stay with you whenever you leave the dorm room.
3. Avoid Walking Alone Whenever Possible
Whenever possible, try to walk with a group when leaving or entering the dorm room, especially at night. Not only will this provide a greater sense of security and serve as an extra layer of protection if you find yourself in a dangerous situation, but it also serves as a great way to make sure that no one gets lost on their way home!
If walking alone is your only option, think about meeting up with someone from the same building ahead of time so they can keep an eye out for each other during trips back and forth.
4. Make Use of Parking Lot Security Equipment for Your Safety
Many parking lots are now equipped with all security equipment such as security cameras and even motion-sensing systems that can alert campus police if there is any suspicious activity. Common in parking lots, these can be an invaluable tool in staying safe as you move between areas.
If your school has this type of equipment, be sure to take advantage of it and make sure that the appropriate personnel are aware of your presence at all times!
In addition, some schools also have special lighting or designated “help” zones that can further enhance student safety by providing a lighted area for people to go to if needed. Knowing what safety measures are in place is the best way to ensure that you're always safe and protected no matter where you may roam on campus!
5. Pay Attention to Gut Instincts & Walk with a Stride Full of Confidence
Finally, it’s always helpful to trust your gut! If something doesn't feel right, it's best not to ignore it – even if there isn't an immediate threat. Pay extra attention when walking alone at night and ensure that you're in control of wherever you go - don't take shortcuts through unknown alleyways etc.
Also, try to make sure that your stride is full of confidence - walk tall and don’t appear timid or scared as this can attract unwanted attention or potential danger if someone sees you as an easy target.
By following these simple tips and taking the necessary precautions, college students can feel safe while moving between locations on campus and return home safely every time.