As a college student, your academic journey is filled with exciting new experiences, but it’s also important to be mindful of personal safety. Whether you're navigating a bustling campus, commuting late at night, or attending social events, the reality is that there are risks to being in unfamiliar or crowded environments. Developing self-defense skills and using safety strategies can help you stay safe and protect yourself. Here’s a guide to self-defense and safety tips that every college student in the UK should know.

1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

The first step in personal safety is always awareness. Being alert to your surroundings can help you identify potential threats before they escalate. When walking on or near campus, avoid distractions such as looking at your phone or wearing headphones. Pay attention to who is around you and what is happening in your environment. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, take precautions immediately.

• Tip: Keep your phone handy, but avoid using it while walking, especially at night or in isolated areas. If you must use your phone, stop in a well-lit, populated place.

2. Use Campus Resources and Services

Most universities and colleges in the UK offer safety resources such as campus security teams, emergency phone lines, and transport services. Many campuses have an escort service, where a security officer or staff member will accompany you if you're walking home alone at night.

• Tip: Familiarise yourself with these services as soon as you arrive on campus. Save relevant phone numbers (security, emergency services) in your contacts. Use campus shuttle services or transport apps if you're out late and need a safe way to get home.

3. Self-Defense Training

Knowing how to physically defend yourself is a valuable skill. Self-defense classes teach you techniques to protect yourself in dangerous situations, including how to break free from holds, protect vital areas of your body, and use your surroundings as a shield or weapon. Many universities offer self-defense workshops, and local gyms or martial arts clubs may provide classes.

• Tip: Consider taking a class in Krav Maga, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or another self-defense martial art. These can give you the confidence and skills to defend yourself effectively in threatening situations.

4. Carry Personal Safety Items

Having personal safety tools on hand can give you an extra layer of protection. Items such as a whistle, personal alarm, or pepper spray (if legal) can help you deter attackers or alert others if you are in danger. A personal alarm is particularly effective in attracting attention, while a whistle can be heard from a distance.

• Tip: Always carry a whistle or personal alarm in your bag or pocket. For added security, a small self-defense keychain can also be a discreet and effective tool for personal protection.

5. Buddy System

Whenever possible, try to stay with a friend or group, especially if you're out at night or in unfamiliar places. The buddy system is one of the most effective ways to stay safe. It makes you less of a target for potential attackers and ensures there’s someone nearby if you need assistance.

• Tip: When attending parties, going out to bars, or heading to the library late at night, always arrange to go with someone you trust. If that’s not possible, let a friend know where you’re going and when you plan to return.

6. Avoid Walking Alone at Night

Walking alone, particularly late at night, increases the risk of encountering dangerous situations. Stick to well-lit, busy routes, and avoid shortcuts through alleys or poorly lit areas. If possible, use public transport or ride-sharing services to get home rather than walking alone after dark.

• Tip: Use apps like Uber, Lyft, or local taxi services if public transport is unavailable. When waiting for a ride, stay in a safe, visible location and ensure the driver matches the details provided by the app.

7. Keep Your Valuables Hidden

Don't make yourself an easy target by displaying expensive items like smartphones, tablets, or jewellery in public. Carry only what you need when walking around campus or in the city. Keep your valuables in a secure, zipped bag or backpack, and avoid leaving items in plain sight in your dorm or car.

• Tip: Consider using anti-theft backpacks that have hidden zippers or cut-resistant straps. When sitting in public, place your bag securely on your lap or between your feet to prevent theft.

8. Trust Your Intuition

If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable in a situation, trust your instincts. Whether it's a person following you or a place that feels off, if something doesn't seem right, remove yourself from the situation as quickly and safely as possible. Your intuition is often a reliable guide when it comes to detecting danger.

• Tip: If you feel unsafe walking home, call a friend or family member to talk to you while you walk. This can help you stay focused and calm, and if something happens, you’ll have someone aware of your situation.

9. Know How to Respond in Emergencies

In the event of an emergency, it’s essential to know how to react. Familiarize yourself with emergency protocols on campus and the location of emergency phones. If you are in danger, don't hesitate to call 999 (the UK emergency number) and report the situation. Stay calm and provide clear information about your location and what’s happening.

• Tip: Practice a few key emergency phrases that will help you convey urgency and location quickly, such as “I need help, I am at [location],” or “I’m being followed/attacked.”

10. Learn relevant stab protection knowledge

Stab prevention requires the use of a variety of materials, clothing, and strategies to reduce or prevent injuries from stabbing or stabbing. While no one method is completely safe, certain tools and precautions can greatly increase your chances of avoiding or mitigating an injury.