For many students, going to university can mean living on your own for the first time. It can feel a little daunting, let’s face it, but there are plenty of things you can do to ensure you stay as safe and comfortable as possible.
In this blog we will cover essential safety advice for student renters, particularly those renting away from home for the first time or international students living in the UK. It will cover tips for staying safe in your rented accommodation, while out and about, and also guidance on settling into a new home comfortably.
Staying Safe At Home
It’s vital that you feel safe in the place where you will be staying while at university and for that reason it’s important to choose carefully when looking for student accommodation. Pick an area which is as safe as it can be and check that your accommodation is secure. Remember to keep doors and windows locked and have your valuables stored somewhere secure, just in case there is a break in.
While you are in your property, make sure to practice electrical and fire safety. Never overload plugs, check that your smoke alarms work correctly, and always use electrical devices safely. In addition, if you like to have candles in your property, make sure to never leave them burning unattended.
If you are staying in a Westmanor property and find yourself with a maintenance issue, help is at hand when you need it from our maintenance team. We are also on hand to offer help and advice when it comes to fixing problems yourself.
Staying Safe While Out and About
Being aware of your surroundings and making sensible choices is vital for keeping safe when you’re outside the home. If you find yourself walking home at night, for example, stick to well-lit areas, let someone you trust, such as a housemate, know where you are going and what time you expect to be back and never wander into areas you don’t know. If you are likely to have a lot to drink, make sure that you have a plan for getting home safely, before you go out.
When it comes to public transport, there are some safer ways to travel than others. For example, only use licensed taxis, ride sharing apps or buses and never accept a lift from someone who you don’t know.
Crimes and scams can be common in major cities. So, if you find yourself in a busy area, make sure to stay aware of what’s around you and avoid becoming the victim of theft. Keep your belongings secure and never leave them unattended. Emergency contacts and useful student safety apps are available through Safezone.
Creating a Safe and Comfortable Home Environment
In addition to ensuring your student property is safe and secure, it’s always a good idea to get to know your housemates and neighbours for extra security. Once in the property, setting boundaries and house rules are a great start for creating a positive living environment.
When it comes to comfort, why not add a few personal touches here and there, such as soft furnishings, rugs or throws, to make your accommodation feel more like home. Familiar smells from home, such as a certain type of washing powder can help evoke feelings of comfort and familiarity, likewise, you could also try cooking some of your favourite meals.
If you start to feel homesick, then it’s always a good idea to talk about how you are feeling, either to friends, or by using the student support network at your university. Try to get to know the new city that you are in, too. The more familiar it becomes, the more it will start to feel like home.
For Safe and Secure Student Accommodation
Avoid the unwanted issues of run-down accommodation and irresponsible landlords by choosing a student housing provider which comes with an excellent reputation. At Westmanor Student Living, we take pride in ensuring our students are as safe and comfortable as they can be and we have a vast portfolio of properties to choose from. To find out more, get in touch with a member of our team and book your viewings today.