The Russell County Sheriff’s Office is offering a number of safety tips to those attending college this fall.
“As college begins, whether a local college or distant college, we would like to remind college students to be safe out there,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “Parents and college students make a safety plan and have a conversation.”
The statement added, “Get to know your college safety resources. Be careful posting your location on social media. Learn about safe apps, and download the Life 360 app as a family and with friends. If something doesn’t sound or feel right, remove yourself safely from the situation.”
Other tips include:
• Learn available support services, including blue light phones and campus escort services.
• Get to know campus safety personnel as they are equipped to handle emergencies and provide assistance.
• If you feel unsafe or even just uncomfortable, trust your gut and get out of the situation as quickly and safely as possible.
• Be sure to regularly stay in touch with friends, family and roommates, on and off campus.
• Travel in groups as there is safety in numbers, especially at odd hours.
• Always arrange for a designated driver or alternative transportation.
• Choose well-lit and populated paths and consider walking in groups during late hours.
