Stay safe. Follow these safety tips while staying in Canada

Canada is known to be a popular destination for Indian students. Ranking sixth on the Global Peace Index 2018*, it is undoubtedly one of the safest countries to live and study in. Canadian universities pay extreme attention to the safety of their students on campus. As an international student, you’ll have access to various points of contacts for any kind of emergency. Don’t worry, 24-hour security is provided at most campuses. Having said that, it is important to take some precautions to remain on the safer side.

Your university security service can help

Almost all campuses in Canada have a special body to ensure the safety of their international students. So, as the first step, check if your institution offers one and keep the security officer’s number saved in your phone.

Various institutions also offer services like shuttles and security escorts to drop you to your accommodation or stations after hours. Some go a step further and have their own mobile apps with a direct line for students to get in touch with the security. Also, there is CCTV surveillance and security that work round the clock on the premises.

If, at any point of time, you feel unsafe in and around your campus or accommodation, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your college authorities.

What to do in an emergency?

If you happen to face any emergency, call the toll free number 911. This is a common number that can be used for fire, police or ambulance. In Canada, interpreters are available in case you are not able to explain in English.

Stay alert when outdoors

  • Be aware of your surroundings. If you feel uncomfortable at any point of time, leave the place or inform someone you trust.

  • Avoid travelling alone especially during the night. Pre-book a taxi or have a friend drop you.

  • Walk on well-lit streets, preferably in a group. Carry sufficient emergency cash.

  • Do not accept rides from strangers.

Navigate safe through the city

  • Take some time to study the routes in Canada properly. Get familiar with the area and check the latest maps for directions. Stick to well-lit routes.

  • For short distances, you can make use of regional trains, buses, and subways. Metropolitan cities like Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal offer buses and subways.

  • Smaller cities may or may not have subways, but you can always avail buses, commuter trains or local taxi service, the schedule of which is available on the web or in your phone book’s yellow pages or white pages with city government listings.

  • If you live far from the bus stop, some cities give you the option to drive down to a special parking area where you can park your car and then take a train or bus. You can also rent a car by getting an international driver’s license.

  • Canadian laws are different from India. So, learn them beforehand to avoid breaking them unintentionally.

Keep your money and documents safe

As an international student, you must keep all your documents safe with you at all times. Your passport, identification, visa papers, and immigration forms should always be kept in safe place. If you prefer to use cash, keep it in various places instead of a single location. It is always a better option to use a card rather than cash.

Do not carry your passport when you go out exploring. If you do not have a permanent place to live, contact your university’s international support team to get you campus storage facilities.

Have fun, but with care

Exploring new venues and enjoying your new surroundings can be exciting but before taking a trip to these areas, research and look up any information you can find on that place to see whether it is safe for you to go venturing. Inform your friends and family about your plans beforehand. You can also share your live location with someone you trust.

Always stay connected

Always keep your friends and family updated on your whereabouts at all times. Here’s how you can always remain connected:

  • Get a local number and share it with friends, family, university office and your roommate

  • Always keep your phone charged and on ringing when not in a classroom

  • Whether you're going to another town or to the nearest shopping mall, keep someone informed

  • If you feel unsafe at any given time, share your live location with someone you trust

Your IDP counsellor will brief you about all the precautionary measures before you leave from India during your pre-departure session so that you are well prepared for the new challenges ahead.

*https://countryeconomy.com/demography/global-peace-index/canada