As I wandered through the pharmacy last weekend, I couldn't help but notice all the school supplies and advertisements lining the aisles. Not having any school age children left at home, I didn't realize how to close to a new school year we are, until seeing the supplies. I couldn't help but wonder if, while everyone is scurrying around to get their paper products etc., if anyone is thinking a little deeper into safety supplies as well.
I remember well when I first came to the college campus-I was excited but nervous and looking back, so naive as well. I'm sure that many of the new faces on campus this year could relate. Luckily for me, I chose a small college campus-well suited to my small town background, but most college bound teens will be hitting the university campuses milling with people and activity.
Some tips to these teens as you start your college experience:
Don't walk alone at night even if it is on campus and you think it's safe.
If approached by an assailant-scream, yell, and make as much noise as possible to draw attention to the situation.
Carry pepper spray or another personal security device with you so if you are approached, you can defend yourself.
If you are lucky enough to keep a car on campus-keep it locked when parked as well as when driving.
If you have anything of value in your dorm room, it would be wise to have a diversion safe for an expensive watch, money, etc.
If you attend a party and we're sure you may-always get your own drink and don't leave it unattended; never sample someone else's drink as you don't know what might be in it. Drinks spiked with drugs can be tasteless as well as colorless.
Never go home with anyone you don't trust and for the female students out there- be sure you have your pepper spray for the time when "No" really means NO!
Many security companies offer an Extreme College Survival Kit which includes items such as several versions of pepper spray, a motion detector alarm, a cell phone flashlight, a nap alarm, an electronic whistle, a diversion safe, and a doorstop alarm. This would be a great welcome to college gift to any new college bound student and help ensure their safety as well! We wish all the college bound students our best for a wonderful year ahead and remember to always stay safe!
Marie Abbatoy is a registered nurse who works extensively with the public and is very concerned for the security of all age groups. She and her husband Bill started the e-commerce business Best Protection and Best Protection/Surveillance to offer security equipment so all can have additional security and peace of mind. They offer a variety of personal security equipment and surveillance and welcome questions. Visit their site to sign up for their quarterly newsletter with safety information and tips as well as be alerted to unadvertised specials. They can be found at the websites: http://www.personalsecuritycompany.com/ and http://www.electronicsurveillancecompany.com/ or call Bill at (863)514-7182; we welcome your questions and will help you with any needs you may have.