Your Student’s Personal Safety

As a parent, you may have mixed feelings about your student’s leaving home and being on his or her own. Like many parents, you may be concerned for your student’s personal safety and well-being. Talking with your son or daughter about personal safety and using protective strategies may help ease some of the anxiety you may be experiencing.

Here is a list of general safety tips your son or daughter can use to help remain safe while at Dartmouth College.

• Always keep doors locked, even when at home.
• Do not prop exterior doors.
• Do not lend your ID/key card to anyone.
• Do not carry large sums of money or valuable items or keep them in the residence halls.
• Always find out who is knocking before opening the door.
• Do not walk alone.
• Party with trusted friends.

College students are in a transitional stage. They are learning to make many important decisions on their own—including decisions about intimate relationships and sexual activity. By supporting your students, communicating with them, and offering facts and education, you as parents can have a positive influence on their sexual decision making. It’s never too late to start an open dialogue with your son or daughter about sex!