College campuses each have their own campus security service or police force, depending on the school's size and location. They usually provide a full range of public safety services including escort services; apprehension and arrest of suspects; enforcement of all federal, state and local laws as well as college policies and regulations; parking and traffic enforcement; and response to medical emergencies and traffic accidents.

Some schools also offer special emergency alert systems. One that is gaining popularity involves placing small towers (similar to short, fat telephone poles) around the campus. If someone is in trouble, they can push a button on the tower, and the people in the security office know where the emergency is and can communicate with the person through an interecom system in the tower.

Whether or not your school has this or another type of security device around your campus, you should find out how to contact security in an emergency and learn what kinds of other services they offer. Though they may seem annoying when they come around to loud parties, they can be your best friends when you need to get to your car late at night.

General Safety Tips