Student Safety Tips from the PSNI

Your first few weeks of uni

Here are some practical steps you can take to help you settle in, adjust to student life, and keep safe.

Familiarise yourself with the local area as soon as possible.
Get to know your flatmates and swap numbers.
Find out where your local police station and hospital are.
Download a taxi app on your phone.

Protecting your belongings

There are simple things you can do to help keep your property safe.

Keep your doors and windows locked wherever you are out.
Carry your bag close to you with the clasp facing inwards
Keep your high value items such as tablets, phones, laptops and jewlery out of sight.
Lock your bicycle using a Sold Secure Gold rated bike lock.

Moving into accommodation

If you are moving into a new flat or house that’s not purpose built student accommodation, it’s important to check its security before moving in.

Are the doors and windows secure? How many different people have keys? Read the PSNI home security pages for more advice.
Find out if the property is registered with an approved scheme or code of practice. This will ensure that it has safety and security certifications such as fire precautions, gas appliance safety, and appropriate locks.
Don’t sign a lease until you’re absolutely sure that the property is right for you.

Staying safe online

When using the internet and social media, it's important to think carefully about what you're posting, and who has access to it.

Don’t disclose private information to others online. Avoid posting personal details or anything that could be used to steal your identity.
If you arrange to meet someone that you’ve met online, meet in a populated public space. Tell a friend or family member where you are going and what time you expect to return.
Connect to secure Wi-Fi - beware of public networks that aren't password protected.

Socialising

It’s important to have fun, but don’t forget to look after yourself and others.

Don’t leave your drink unattended.
Know your drinking limits. On a night out, try ‘Zebra Striping,’ which is alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Stay with your friends and look out for each other.
Plan your journey in advance, including the way home.
Make sure you have extra money in case you get stranded or miss the last bus or train.
Stay in bright, well-lit and busy areas.
Avoid confrontational situations.

In Belfast? Visit the PSNI Safety Clinics

Over the coming months, the PSNI will be running Student Safety Clinics in the BC Foyer at the Belfast campus.

These clinics aim to give you advice on personal, property and online safety, how to report a crime, and where to find the right support services. Officers will also be there to help with any safety or crime-related questions you might have.

Bike security marking will be available at the clinics, so bring your bike along if you have one.