Even as someone who loves winter, one of the major downfalls is how early night falls. Before you even have dinner and leave your house for the library or a late meeting, it’s dark outside. This means we all have to be even more alert and take the necessary precautions when walking at night. Unfortunately, walking alone at night, something all college students must frequently do, puts you at greater risk. Take these steps to ensure you stay safe during the long winter nights.
1. Keep your keys ready: Ensuring you can get in and out of your car or house quickly can be mediated by something as simple as keeping your keys in your hand or on your wrist. That way you avoid fumbling around in your backpack or purse while outside in the dark.
2. Skip the headphones: Even though music on the walk home after a long night in the library is a great way to unwind, skip it on your walk home. Having headphones in while walking alone at night means you are not fully aware of your surroundings.
3. Trust your gut: If you think someone is following you or taking the shortcut through the alley is a bad idea, you are probably right. Better to be safe than sorry and think again if you feel uneasy or think your shortcut between class might not be the best strategy.
4. Keep someone updated: If you are leaving the library and know it is about a 10 minute walk home, text a roommate, friend, or family member that you are leaving the library and about to walk home alone at night. That way if you don’t text them within 20 minutes of leaving the library, they will have reason to worry and can take the necessary actions to make sure you get home safe.
Contributed by Caitlin R., Neighborhood Ambassador