As August rolls in, many are helping pack up dorm essentials, printing class schedules, or watching kids and grandkids head off to college, some for the first time. It’s a season filled with excitement, nerves, and big transitions.

But lately, I’ve noticed something. More and more long heartfelt social media posts with stories not just from strangers, but from friends and friends of friends, sharing close calls, unsettling encounters, or safety scares involving themselves or their college aged kids. Whether it’s an Uber ride that didn’t feel right, a stranger slipping something in a drink, or someone getting separated from their group on a night out, it’s a sobering reminder that while college is a time for independence and growth, it also comes with risks we can’t ignore.

So, this is just a gentle, heartfelt reminder to encourage a conversation with the young people we love.

Here are a few tips worth sharing:

Stick together: Whether at a party, walking home, or exploring a new area, going out in pairs or groups is always safer. Encourage them to set a rule: no one gets left behind.

Trust your gut: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t worry about being polite if you need to leave a situation, turn down a ride, or stop talking to someone.

Watch your drink: Never leave a drink unattended, and don’t accept open drinks from strangers. If you feel different don’t wait, tell a friend immediately.

Use rideshare with caution: Always check that the license plate, driver photo, and name match what’s in the app before getting in. Sit in the back seat and share your trip status with someone you trust.

Keep your phone charged and location on: A portable charger is a smart investment. Turning on location sharing (even temporarily) with a roommate or parent can be a helpful layer of safety.

Speak up for friends: Sometimes it’s easier to notice when something’s wrong with someone else. Step in, ask “are you okay?” or get help when needed.

College should be fun, challenging, and full of discovery, but that doesn’t mean safety conversations should be off the table. In fact, they’re more important than ever.

If you’ve got a student heading back to school, or you know someone who does, consider using this as a light touchpoint to check in. A simple “I saw this and thought it was smart” can go a long way.

Here’s to a safe, fulfilling year for all the bright, brave students out there. May they trust themselves, look out for each other, and know they’re never alone.