As the new school year starts for many, parents and students are getting ready for a new academic year filled with learning, growth, and opportunity. However, with the excited anticipation of a new school year also comes the responsibility of ensuring safety. Whether they’re beginning a new year at elementary school or heading to college, personal safety is crucial. We’ve created a list of important safety tips for every age group, aiming to help families feel secure and safeguarded as they begin the school year.
Elementary School Safety Tips
For younger children, personal safety begins with education and awareness. Here are some essential tips:
1. Teach Them About Strangers. It’s important for young children to learn about strangers and how to interact with them. Children should understand the difference between “safe” strangers, such as police officers or teachers, and strangers they do not know. Role-playing scenarios can be a helpful way to teach children how to respond if approached by a stranger.
2. Establish Safe Routes. Walk or drive the route your child will take to school or the bus stop. Point out landmarks and safe places they can go if they need help. Make sure they understand to stick to this route and avoid shortcuts.
3. Use Personal Safety Alarms. Personal safety alarms for kids offer added protection by emitting a loud noise to attract attention and deter threats. Enhance safety with the Aster –24/7 monitoring app, perfect for any situation — parking lots, walking alone, rideshares, or secluded streets. For maximum ease of use, pair the Aster safety app with the Aster Bluetooth Button
4. Communicate Regularly.Maintain open communication with your child about their day. Encourage them to share any concerns or unusual experiences. This helps you stay aware of their environment and address any safety issues promptly.
5. Incorporate the Aster Personal Safety App. While younger children may not carry smartphones, older elementary students can benefit from the Aster personal safety app Parents can schedule check-ins for their child walking to school or heading home. If a check-in is missed, the “Follow Me” feature sends a text with a Google Map link showing the child’s GPS location, prompting your child to contact you to confirm their safety.
Middle and High School Safety Tips
As children grow older, their independence increases. Here’s how to ensure they stay safe during these transitional years:
1. Educate on Online Safety. The internet becomes a significant part of a teenager’s life. Teach them about the importance of online privacy, recognizing phishing attempts, and the dangers of sharing personal information. Encourage them to report any suspicious online behavior.
2. Promote Buddy Systems. Encourage your teen to travel in groups or pairs, whether walking home, taking public transportation, or attending events. There is safety in numbers, and having a friend along can deter potential threats.
3. Know Their Schedule. Keep a record of your teen’s daily schedule, including classes, extracurricular activities, and part-time jobs. Knowing their whereabouts can help in case of an emergency.
4. Utilize Personal Safety Tools. Personal safety apps and alarms are invaluable tools for teens, offering GPS tracking, emergency alerts, and quick access to contacts. The Aster personal safety app provides 24/7 monitoring and pairs with the Aster Bluetooth Button for maximum convenience. Features like Aster’s ‘Follow Me’ connect your child’s calendar to the app, sharing select events with friends and family to ensure continuous connectivity and safety. Additionally, the ‘Hold Until Safe’ button offers extra precaution in potentially unsafe locations. If released without entering the PIN within 30 seconds, Emergency Services will be alerted and dispatched to the phone’s location.
College Safety Tips
College students face a new set of challenges as they navigate campus life. Here are some tips to keep them feeling safe and protected:
1. Become Familiar with Campus Security. Encourage your student to learn about the campus security services, including the location of emergency call boxes, the campus security office, and the availability of night-time escorts.
2. Use Personal Safety Mobile Apps. Personal safety mobile apps are crucial for college students. Apps like Aster offer features such as the ‘Hold Until Safe’ button, which students can press and hold when walking alone. If the button is released and the user does not enter their PIN within 30 seconds, Emergency Services will be alerted and dispatched to the phone’s location. This ensures immediate assistance in critical situations.
3. Be Cautious with Ridesharing. When using ridesharing services, it’s important to be aware of potential risks. Advise your student to verify the driver’s details, share their ride information with a trusted person, and choose to sit in the back seat. Consider using a personal safety app like Aster for additional security. With Aster’s scheduling system, your student can link their mobile phone calendar to the app and share specific events with friends and family (followers). If they fail to check in on the app after a scheduled event, the “Follow Me” feature will alert their followers to reach out and confirm safety.
4. Secure Living Spaces. Encourage your student to keep their dorm or apartment doors locked at all times. Using additional locks or door stoppers can enhance security. It’s also wise to avoid sharing details about their living situation on social media.
5. Stay Aware of Surroundings. Whether on campus or off, staying aware of one’s surroundings is crucial. Advise your student to avoid distractions like texting or listening to loud music when walking alone. Being vigilant can help prevent potential threats.
6. Plan for Emergencies. Ensure your student knows the emergency procedures for their campus and dormitory. Having a plan in place for situations like fires, natural disasters, or medical emergencies can save lives.
7. Incorporate Aster’s Bluetooth Button. The Aster Bluetooth Button pairs with the Aster personal safety app via Bluetooth, offering a simple way to call for emergency services. With a 200-foot range and a 5-month battery life, this compact button can be easily clipped to a purse, keychain, or backpack strap. The one-button design simplifies calling for emergency services, ensuring quick access in critical moments.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
Understanding the prevalence of safety concerns can underscore the importance of these measures. Here are some key statistics:
- According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2019, about 20% of students aged 12-18 reported being bullied at school.
- The National Safety Council reports that in 2018, there were 2,800 assaults and 24,000 non-fatal injuries involving school-age children.
- A study by the American College Health Association found that 32% of college students felt overwhelming anxiety, impacting their sense of safety and well-being.
Embracing Technology for Enhanced Safety
As technology continues to evolve, personal safety apps and alarms are becoming integral tools in protecting our loved ones. From elementary school children to college students, these devices offer peace of mind and a sense of security. By incorporating these tools and following safety tips, parents can ensure their children feel safe, protected, and ready to thrive in the new school year.
For the best mobile personal safety app, consider exploring Aster by LogicMark, which provides comprehensive features designed to enhance safety and security for users of all ages. By prioritizing personal safety, we can create an environment where everyone feels safe and protected, fostering a successful and worry-free academic year.
For more information on Aster and its features, visit Aster by LogicMark.
