As universities across the country open this week, there is a lot of excitement as students return to campus life for a new academic year and new experiences.

However, it is vitally important for those living, commuting and working on university campuses to apply basic security rules to stay safe. This is according to Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity Services Group.

Typical forms of campus crime include theft and robbery, but students can also be victims of more sinister crimes, such as sexual assault and kidnapping.

“Criminals are particularly interested in students for several reasons. One is that students have laptops, computers, cellphones, i-pods and other gadgets – items that are light, portable and easy for a criminal to sell and convert into cash. It is essential that every student learns how to stay safe wherever they are on campus,” she adds.

The basic rules of crime prevention apply to everyone in a higher education environment

She explains that crime prevention is the anticipation, recognition and appraisal of a crime risk and initiation of some action to remove or reduce this risk.

Hattingh says safety in parking areas is of paramount importance. Always remember:

• Never offer lifts to strangers or pick up hitchhikers. Have your keys in your hand when you approach your vehicle so that there is no hesitation upon entering the car. Even if your car is locked, check the front and back seats before you get in
• Don’t leave anything of value including clothing, cash or jewellery in your vehicle

• Ensure your car lights are switched off to avoid flat batteries and being stranded without a vehicle if you are out
• Have your keys in your hand when you approach your vehicle so that there is no hesitation upon entering the car. Even if your car is locked, check the front and back seats before you get in
• If you leave campus and suspect you are being followed, immediately drive to the nearest police station or busy public area where you should stay in the vehicle with the doors locked and phone the police or a family member for help. Take note of the registration and make and model of the car you think has been following you. Take a photograph if possible.

Recognising that socialising is a big part of student life, Fidelity urges students to keep safety top of mind at all times when they are out to enjoy themselves. The sad reality of gender-based violence in South Africa is that sexual predators see opportunity in social environments.

“Be particularly aware that alcohol and drugs interfere with your ability to make clear decisions and communicate effectively,” Hattingh says. “Perpetrators are often not strangers but even if you know the person, it is never acceptable to use force in sexual situations.

“If you feel unsafe or think you may be at risk, leave the situation immediately. It is always best to go out in a group with friends you trust and to stick together. Don’t accept drinks from strangers and watch your drinks at all times.”

Tips for on-campus safety in your residence:

• Always lock your residence door, even when you are in the room
• Residence hall doors must be secure at all times. If you find someone has propped a door open, remove the barricade and secure the door
• Report suspicious persons you may see in residence or office corridors
• Never open your door to strangers
• If you have lost your residence key, report it immediately and have the locks changed
• Don’t keep residence and vehicle keys on the same keyring, and never disclose your address on your keyring
• Preferably keep all valuables including cash locked in a safe.

“University is such an exciting step for young adults. Whether you’re a new student or staff member or have been at a university for a few years, it is important to always prioritise safety,” Hattingh says.

“To ensure your experience is memorable for the right reasons, mix with people who are like-minded about personal safety and who you can rely on in an emergency.

“There are a few things you could do to put your safety first and protect those around you as well. Always be on the lookout, be smart, and be aware of your surroundings to make sure you’re safe on campus. Knowing and exercising the basics of crime prevention can go a long way towards preventing crime,” she concludes.

Issued on behalf of Fidelity Services Group – charnelh@fidelity-services.com