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

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.