It’s back-to-school time, and it seems that all the retailers and all the news stations are talking about elementary and high school children. But what about our college students? Parents are also busy getting ready to send them off after a summer away from classes, and they need to consider many of the same safety tips.
In fact, college students might need to be even more careful since they are away from the protection of their parents, the homes they are familiar with, and their regular friends. Here are some things for parents and college students to remember as they start back to school.
Transportation:
Talk about your transportation plan with your college students. If they are taking a car to school, make sure it is in good working condition, and current registration and insurance papers are in the car. Students should know where they can park, how to walk to their dorm or class safely especially if it is late at night, and who to call if they need help. Many colleges have officers who will walk students to and from their cars if it’s late at night. Many colleges also have mechanics nearby who can help in the event of a flat tire or dead battery. If your student plans to ride a bike or use public transportation, review all safety rules and make sure they have a map so they won’t get lost. They should also get in the habit of letting someone know where they are going and when they expect to return.
Personal Safety:
Students should know it is never safe to walk alone at night. Take a friend or ask a campus officer to escort you. Also, don’t carry a lot of cash and don’t overfill your backpack so you are burdened with a heavy load. Bring a flashlight and know where you are going. Other tips include:
• never give a stranger your address or your phone number
• go on first dates in public places and meet your date there instead of giving them your address
• always let your roommate or friends know where you are going, who with, and when you’ll return
• avoid getting drunk or using drugs
• keep your drink close to you at all times when at a bar so no one can tamper with it
• get plenty of sleep and eat healthy
• know how to get hold of emergency services at your campus and have the numbers saved on your phone
Health:
Many college students are so excited to be on their own and meeting new friends that they forget to take care of themselves. Parents can discuss with students how important it is to get an adequate amount of sleep every night and to eat healthy. It’s also important that students who need medication know where the school health clinic is, how to make an appointment, and where to pick up their medication. Set check-in times with your student once daily or once every other day. That way parents will know if their student is having any trouble.
Living Arrangements:
Secure safe housing for your student well before classes begin. This should be a dorm room or an apartment or house near campus. Ask whether there are security guards or other security measures in place. Meet your student’s roommates and ask for everyone’s contact information, so you have it in the event of an emergency. If your student is sharing a house with other students, she should have a quiet space of her own, preferably with a door that locks.
We hope these tips help! Remember, if you ever have a legal question after a personal injury, The Husband and Wife Law Team is here to help. Call us for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer!