The Texas Department of Public Safety is urging college students returning to campus for the fall semester to make smart decisions and stay aware of their surroundings both on and off campus, the agency said in an Aug. 17 news release.
The advisory lands during move-in week, when campus towns absorb a surge of new drivers, pedestrians and first-time residents. Whether students are heading to class, attending football games or exploring a new city, DPS said, a little preparation and vigilance can go a long way toward ensuring a safe school year.
“Starting college is an exciting time, but it also comes with new responsibilities and new environments,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “Whether you’re walking across campus, driving to class or going out with friends, always stay aware of your surroundings, make responsible decisions and never get behind the wheel impaired. Your safety – and the safety of those around you – depends on the choices you make every day.”
On campus, the agency recommends that students avoid distractions such as walking while looking at a phone or wearing headphones at high volume, stick to well-lit and populated areas at night, travel with friends when possible, save campus police and local law enforcement numbers in their phones, learn where emergency call boxes are, and lock dorm rooms, apartments and vehicles even for short absences. DPS also urged students to trust their instincts, leave any situation that feels wrong and report suspicious activity immediately.
Behind the wheel, the release said students should never drink and drive or ride with an impaired driver, should designate a sober driver or use a rideshare service, should buckle up along with every passenger, and should obey speed limits and put the phone down, noting that texting while driving is illegal in Texas. The agency asked drivers to be extra cautious around pedestrians, bicyclists and scooters near campuses and to allow extra travel time during move-in weekends and football game days.
The agency also pointed students, parents, faculty and staff to year-round resources. DPS described the iWatchTexas program as a critical tool for reporting suspicious activity in schools and communities, and urged everyone to download the free iOS or Android app before classes begin. Tips can be submitted through the website, the app or by calling 844-643-2251, and all reports are confidential. The release also highlighted the Texas School Safety Center, based at Texas State University, as a central source of research, training and school safety resources.