In today’s world, ensuring personal safety has become a vital concern for everyone, especially for school and college-going girls. As society continues to evolve, unfortunately, so do the challenges and threats young women face in their everyday lives. These challenges include harassment, bullying, kidnapping, online abuse, and more. Hence, it is crucial for every girl to be aware, alert, and educated about personal safety rules.
This article highlights practical, easy-to-follow safety rules and tips that can empower school and college girls to protect themselves both physically and mentally.
1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
The first rule of personal safety is awareness. Whether you are in school, college, public transport, a mall, or on the street, always be conscious of what’s happening around you. Avoid distractions like using mobile phones or listening to loud music while walking alone. Notice people who are behaving unusually or following you.Stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially after dark.
2. Trust Your Instincts
Your intuition is a powerful tool. If something doesn’t feel right — a stranger approaching, a sudden change in someone’s behaviour, or even the atmosphere in a place — trust your gut. It’s okay to say no. Leave the area or ask for help immediately if something feels off.
3. Avoid Sharing Personal Information Publicly
With the rise of social media, many girls unknowingly share private information with strangers. Do not share your address, phone number, daily routines, or location publicly online. Be cautious while accepting friend requests from unknown people. Set your social media accounts to private.
4. Learn Basic Self-Defence Techniques
One of the most empowering things a girl can do is learn basic self-defence. It builds confidence and prepares you to react wisely during emergencies. Join a self-defence class in your area or learn online. Techniques like hitting the attacker’s sensitive areas (eyes, groin, throat) can buy you time to escape. Carry safety tools like pepper spray, a small whistle, or a safety alarm.
5. Use Technology Smartly
Technology can both help and harm. Use it wisely to ensure your safety.
Install safety apps like bSafe, My Safetipin, Shake2Safety, or Citizen Cop which allow you to send SOS alerts with GPS location.
Keep emergency contacts on speed dial.
Enable location sharing with trusted friends or family during travel.
6. Be Cautious in Public Transport
Public transport is commonly used by students, but it can pose risks too.
Avoid sitting in isolated parts of a bus or train.
Try to travel during peak hours when more people are around.
Don’t doze off or lose awareness of your surroundings while commuting.
7. Speak Up Against Harassment
Harassment — whether verbal, physical, or online — should never be tolerated.
Speak to a trusted adult, teacher, or school counsellor.
File a complaint with your college authorities or local police if needed.
Don’t feel ashamed — you are not responsible for someone else’s bad behaviour.
8. Set Boundaries and Be Assertive
Girls often face pressure from peers, classmates, or even friends. It’s important to set clear boundaries.
Practice saying “No” firmly.
Never feel guilty for prioritizing your safety or comfort.
Avoid getting into vehicles or going to unknown places with people you don’t trust.
9. Maintain a Safe Routine
Planning and routine can prevent unexpected problems.
Inform your parents or friends about your plans when staying out late.
Try to travel in groups rather than alone.
Keep your phone fully charged and carry a power bank.
10. Use College/School Safety Resources
Most institutions have safety resources — use them.
Note the helpline numbers of your school or college.
Identify where the security desks and emergency exits are.
Participate in safety awareness programs and workshops organized by your institution.
11. Online Safety Matters Too
The virtual world can be just as dangerous as the real one.
Never share private photos or videos with anyone.
Report and block people who make you uncomfortable online.
Be cautious of blackmail, cyberbullying, and fake profiles.
12. Stay Informed About Legal Rights
Every girl should be aware of the legal protections provided by the Indian Constitution (or your respective country’s laws).
You have the right to say “no” to any unwanted touch or behavior.
Sexual harassment, stalking, and ragging are punishable crimes.
If you ever face a threat, dial 112 or your local women’s helpline.
13. Build a Support System
Safety is not just physical but also emotional. Talk to people you trust.
Create a group of friends who support and look out for each other.
Join student support groups or safety clubs.
Don’t isolate yourself if something goes wrong — seek help.
14. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Being prepared can help you stay calm and act wisely during emergencies.
Memorize at least one emergency contact number.
Learn how to use safety tools (spray, whistle, etc.) in real-life scenarios.
Carry identity proof and emergency medical information in your bag.
15. Believe in Yourself
Last but most important, always believe in your strength. Personal safety begins with self-respect and confidence.
Stand tall, walk with purpose, and make eye contact.
Don’t underestimate your power to protect yourself.
Take charge of your safety, and remember: you are not alone.
Conclusion
Every school and college-going girl deserves to feel safe, respected, and empowered. While society must take steps to improve safety, girls can also take practical measures to protect themselves. By being alert, educated, and confident, girls can prevent many dangerous situations and build a secure environment for themselves and others.