Generally, we’re safe on the grounds and in the dorms and buildings here on campus. But on nights like tonight, when everyone has gone out after the game and there are people from all over the state trying to get where they’re going, things are a bit dangerous. And why? Because people get drunk. Cops come out in full force, and the flashing blue lights are a reassuring sight- as long as you aren’t the one who’s getting chased. But what about the other nights, when the cops aren’t trolling around campus, trying to bag underage drinkers and people with open containers for easy fines? That’s when we are at a greater risk, and here are some tips to keep yourself safe.

Unfortunately, Athens is, save for the students, a VERY low-income and low-standard of living area. Just up Baxter Street and Florida Avenue you can see the housing projects, and if you’ve been downtown for any length of time, you probably got panhandled. That isn’t to say that only locals are what may put you at risk. Your fellow students are just as likely to cause you harm, but in different ways. I’m not going to place blame on either party, but NEWS FLASH: this is not a perfectly safe place. The best thing you can do to keep yourself safe is to not be stupid.

  • If you’re going to drink, have a designated sober-person.

They don’t have to be the driver, especially if you’re just trying to get to a bus-stop. They can and should be someone to keep an eye out for people trying to cop a feel, slip you roofies, or pick your pocket. They also should be the one who keeps you from making an ass of yourself or getting behind the wheel of a car.

  • Don’t take shortcuts through parking lots after dark.

It seems like every UGA Alert I get is about people who are walking through parking lots and either getting held up or raped. Stay out of the freaking parking lots, guys. Stay on the street, where it’s lit and people can see you. It’ll take longer, but you won’t as likely get hurt.

  • Stay away from large vehicles/vans/SUV’s, especially solid colored and dark-windowed ones.

Kind of self explanatory. Guys, little kids aren’t the only ones who can get nabbed and raped or molested in unmarked vehicles. Whether you’re drunk or sober, be aware of your surroundings. If you see a vehicle following you or that looks out of place, avoid it. Be smart about the world around you.

  • Walk with a friend, or failing that, with confidence.

If you’re going anywhere after dark, you should go with someone. A friend, a lover, a roommate, or a trusted acquaintance, it doesn’t much matter. Attackers are less likely to go after a pair than someone on their own, and even less likely to go after a crowd than a pair. There’s strength in numbers. However, sometimes you aren’t given the luxury of going about with company. Maybe you have to be back to your dorm to study or you’ve got to get up early for a job interview, whatever. If you’re going home alone, don’t get lost in your own head. Don’t sulk, don’t look meek. Walk with your head held high and keep an eye on your surroundings. Make eye contact with passers-by and drivers. Have your keys in your hand (to use as a weapon, if necessary) and your cellphone close. If you’re going to be on the phone talking, stay alert, because even if whoever you’re talking to thinks to call the cops, it could be a long time for you to get help if you’re attacked and you can’t call for help yourself. DON’T text. Texting is almost as dangerous when you’re walking as when you’re driving- safe your texts for when you get home. Also, try not to walk home alone if you’re drunk. Ride the bus, take a cab, or have a friend drive you.

All in all, stay with a group or a friend, don’t drive drunk, be aware of your surroundings, and make use of as much public space as possible.

Emergency Numbers:

  • Emergency- 911
  • University Police- (706) 542-2200
  • Escort Van Service- (706) 542-2000
    • Note: The Escort Van only travels around campus, Sunday-Thursday 6:00PM-2:00AM and Friday 6:00PM-10:00PM

Memorize and store three other emergency contacts, either friends or family members, who can come and get you if there is trouble or you are drunk. The Red Cross recommends storing these numbers as ICE (In Case of Emergency) 1, 2, & 3 so that the police, fire department or health officials know who to contact if they find you and need to tell someone.