As students begin a new semester in 2024, safety tips remain important for navigating life on campus.  

Sergeant Tricia Knoles of the Kent State Police and Jay Luna, coordinator for the Office of Safety and Security, shared advice on staying safe throughout campus. 

Be aware of your surroundings 

Students can keep their heads up, listen with caution and not have other distractions surrounding them in order to stay safe from crime while walking on campus, especially when alone and at night. 

“A lot of times people are walking with their heads in their cell phones and just not aware of their surroundings,” Knoles said. 

Carry pepper spray and personal safety alarms 

Students are allowed to carry pepper spray and personal safety alarms on campus, which some choose to do as a way to protect themselves. 

Knoles said while being aware of your surroundings is the number one way to stay safe, carrying these items can be beneficial as well. 

“I always recommend if you choose to carry pepper spray buy two canisters, one so that you can practice in an open area just to see how that particular spray works,” Knoles said. 

Keep track of your valuables 

Knoles said she suggests keeping items close in public spaces. 

“Just remember to always keep an eye on your valuables, or if you’re there with a friend, take turns getting up if you’re going to leave valuable items on a desk in the library,” Knoles said. 

Another way students can keep their belongings safe is by renting a free lock at the Kent State Recreation Center to put on the locker room cubbies. 

Practice caution crossing the roads 

“Since we are a campus environment, we do have a lot of people that walk around in the area so just taking an extra precaution at crossing the streets looking for vehicles that may be traveling a little bit too fast,” Knoles said. 

Knoles suggested that pedestrians leave space between them and the curb while waiting to cross the street in case a car loses control on the icy roads. 

Call the Security Escort Service 

The Office of Safety and Security offers escort services for students on the Kent campus, where students can request to be escorted by a Safety Assistant to an on-campus destination. 

“I know we have a lot of students who feel uncomfortable calling our office because they don’t feel like their needs match the services that are provided,” said Luna. “Call. That’s what they’re here for.” 

Students can call 330-672-7004 to request an escort. Safety assistants are available to escort students from 12 p.m. to 4 a.m. 

Kayla Gleason is a beat reporter. Contact her at [email protected].