Studying in a foreign country can be exciting with all the new experience but, safety is a still major concern for students leaving their home country. Australians like to think that they live in a safe country but it’s still important to take measures to ensure your safety, especially if you find yourself in an unfamiliar environment. Australia warmly welcomes international students and visitors, but like most countries, it is not free from crime or other dangers.
We have listed some essential safety tips to guide you to evade any dangerous situations. These tips will come handy anywhere around the world –
What to do in an emergency
Dial 000, this number can be used to contact ambulance, fire and police services, the operator will connect you to the right service and it’s crucial that you only dial this number in the case of a real emergency. If you have any enquiry or a small complaint for example if you loose your phone, call or visit your local police station instead.
Security services at your university
Most institutions have some form of security on campus to ensure the safety of students and staff and it is a good idea to learn about the security services on offer, especially if you spend a lot of time at the institution. You should at least know the phone number for campus security and have it saved on your phone. Some institutions even offer mobile apps that provide a direct line for students to contact security. Do not hesitate to call the security office if you feel unsafe or witness an incident. Security services can include security escorts to accompany you around the campus after hours, access to well-lit safety paths, security points with emergency telephones and shuttle bus services to drop you off at public transport stations and accommodation.
Stay safe outdoors
With so many beautiful natural landscapes, from beaches to the bush and the outback, Australia’s natural environment is a major tourist attraction. One must have a good time, but safety is and awareness of dangers is crucial as well. You must take care of the following things –
• Make sure to only swim at beaches patrolled by surf life savers, and in patrolled areas marked by red and yellow flags. If you need help, stay calm and wave your arm to get the attention of a life saver.
• Take note of any warning signs and beware of hidden obstacles before you enter rivers, lakes or the ocean and take caution of strong currents and dangerous animals such as jellyfish, sharks or crocodiles.
• If you want to go hiking or bushwalking, make sure to inform someone about where you are going and when you are likely to return and carry the right equipment. You should also know about the area you are travelling to and check whether there are dangerous conditions expected, such as potential fires or slippery tracks.
• It is advisable to talk to a park ranger, surf life saver or a member of staff at a visitor information centre before you commence exploring, so that you get some expert advice, along with some great sightseeing tips.
Awareness on the street
Each time you leave home, take stock of your surroundings and possible dangers. Explore your new town or city with your friends during the day, and try to learn your way around. Try and remember the locations of public transport stations, taxi ranks, visitor information centres and police stations. Beware of cars and public transport, and only cross the road at designated pedestrian crossings and traffic lights. Keep an eye on your belongings to avoid thefts and ensure you keep your bags close to your body and closed, place valuables under the seat or in the boot of your car and do not leave your belongings unattended.
Avoid being out alone at night too much, especially when you are unfamiliar with the environment. If you are unable to do that, be sure to keep a mobile phone with you, stay in busy well-lit areas and don’t take short cuts through secluded areas, such as alleys or parks. If you are approached by an undesirable character or feel unsafe, walk away as quickly as possible to a crowded area and make a call for help if necessary.
Australian laws are strictly enforced by its police officers and may differ between states and territories, so its a good idea to learn about some Australian laws to avoid getting yourself into trouble. For example, in most states it is illegal to drink alcohol in public places that is not a licensed venue. If you plan to drive, it is also important to learn the road rules of the state or territory in which you live.