It's August and with back-to-school on everyone's mind, it's a good time to remind new and returning students about safety.

To ensure your safety and put your parents at ease when going off to a college or university use the following tips to protect yourself and your property.

• Check out the best route between your residence hall, classes and activities. The fastest route is not necessarily the safest.

• Don't become distracted when walking alone. Cell phone, Ipods and other devices cause you to let your guard down, making you a prime target. Travel in well lit, heavily traveled areas in groups of two or more especially at night. Make sure you walk facing traffic so you can see what's approaching.

• Give a schedule of your classes and activities to a friend or family member. Always let someone know where you are going and when you'll be back.

• Use the buses after dark and if they have stopped running call an escort service or taxi. Your life is worth more than the money you will spend!

• Don't flash large amounts of cash, jewelry, or expensive clothing.

• Always lock your doors at night and when you're gone. Never loan out your key and change the locks if your key is lost or stolen.

• Never enter an elevator with a person who looks suspicious. Trust your instincts. Report anything suspicious to campus security or the police immediately.

• Stay away from shrubs, dark alleys and doorways. Never use stairways alone.

University and college security offices are required by law to provide you with basic campus crime statistics and security policies. They must also provide you with information about convicted, registered sex offenders, whether they are enrolled in or employed at the institution.

-Hands of Hope

Resource Center Annette Schilling Long Prairie, MN 56347 320-732-2319