Assaults on college coeds have been increasing at an alarming rate. Young women are challenged by the need for personal protection which does not interfere with books, laptops or campus regulations.

College Student Affairs departments are now providing self-defense training. Campus regulations do not permit possession of firearms, seriously reducing the response options to danger. As a result, a growing group of coeds are meeting the challenge by carrying either Mace or pepper spray. These non-lethal options are sized to fit a feminine hand without interfering with regular activities. Both fit neatly on a key ring or can be clipped to the strap of a laptop case.

The best weapon in any arsenal is defensive thinking. A few simple steps will greatly increase campus safety for anyone.

• Never cross campus alone, especially after dark. If you don’t have friends to walk with, call for a security escort.

• Park in a well-lit, well-populated area which provides few places for assailants to hide.

• Look inside the vehicle before you get inside – front and back seats.

• Continually look around, especially if walking while loaded down with books and papers.

• Have your key out and ready to use. Ditto with Mace or pepper spray.

• If your mode of transportation is bicycle, motorcycle, or skateboard, arrange to carry school materials in a backpack or shoulder bag AND clip Mace or pepper spray to the front of strap or other area which is easily accessible.

• The most important self-defense weapon anyone has is the one between their ears. Use it.