What is National Campus Safety Month?

National Campus Safety Month, occurring every September, aims to raise awareness among students and parents about campus-related safety risks and proactive measures. It promotes discussions and actions to maintain personal safety as the academic year begins.

What are the main safety risks on college campuses?

Some primary safety risks on college campuses include drink spiking and forcible sexual assaults. With a significant percentage of spiking incidents occurring on college premises, emphasis is placed on situational awareness and preventive strategies.

How can students protect themselves from campus-related risks?

Students can protect themselves by maintaining situational awareness, recognizing signs of drink tampering, and employing safety tools like drink covers. It’s also crucial for students to have an exit plan and a trusted contact for support in social settings.

National Campus Safety Month: What Every St...

National Campus Safety Month: What Every Student and Parent Should Know

September is National Campus Safety Month, highlighting the importance of student safety as the school year begins. The article discusses emerging risks such as drink spiking and rising campus assaults. Experts emphasize situational awareness and proactive safety measures.

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By Mike Matranga · September 19, 2025, 4:50 PM UTCAssaultsAwarenessCampusCollege

Key takeaways

Importance of National Campus Safety Month for raising awareness.

Emerging campus risks include drink spiking and increasing assaults.

Proactive steps and tools can empower students to stay safe.

September marks National Campus Safety Month, a timely reminder for students and parents to prioritize personal safety as a new school year begins. In this episode of Secured, Carrie Pasquarello, CEO of Global Secure Resources, highlights emerging risks on college campuses and the proactive steps that can help students stay safe and empowered.

One of the most pressing concerns is drink spiking. According to a survey by Alcohol.org, 52% of respondents who had a drink or food spiked reported it happened at college, often at house parties, bars, concerts, or even on dates. Pasquarello stresses the importance of situational awareness, recognizing the signs of tampering, and using preventive tools such as the NightCap drink cover. These simple strategies can dramatically reduce risks in social settings.

Another alarming trend is the rise in forcible sexual assaults, which now account for 44% of campus crime, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Many of these incidents occur during the so-called “red zone”—the first four months of the academic year, when students are most vulnerable as they adjust to new environments, social circles, and routines. Pasquarello advises students to balance fun with intention: know your limits, trust your instincts, and always have an exit plan and trusted contact.

Campus life should be exciting, not unsafe. As Pasquarello emphasizes, safety isn’t about fear—it’s about preparation, empowerment, and action. By starting conversations early, families can equip students with the tools they need for a safer, more confident college experience.