Safety First
3 Aug 2020 12:00pm
2020 has been the most dangerous year in memory – from raging bushfires to global pandemics this year has had the works and we’re still only halfway through it. So what better time to remind ourselves that we need to always be mindful of our own personal safety and that we are all individually responsible for doing all that we can to minimise any potential risk.
And while the Gold Coast isn’t a dangerous place, as we’ve seen this year no matter where you are in the world there is always a possibility that something could go wrong, especially if you’re in unfamiliar surroundings and you’re not sure of the cultural and social norms.
Starting Out in a New City
Moving to a new city to start your academic journey is a very exciting prospect, but if you’ve just arrived from overseas it can also be a little daunting. For this reason the team at Study Gold Coast decided to create some safety films, to make sure you have a better understanding of your surroundings, how to take precautions where necessary and what to do if you need help.
For instance, the Gold Coast has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and for many international students those golden sands and clear blue waters are one of the big drawcards for wanting to live and study here. You may not think that the beach is a dangerous place, but sadly people do drown in the ocean and its usually people who don’t understand beach conditions that can get themselves into trouble. The best way to protect yourself when swimming at the beach is to always swim between the red and yellow flags, which is patrolled by the city’s lifeguards and surf lifesavers.
Vietnamese student Ken Dinh talks about beach safety
Swimming isn’t the only danger at the beach, people who leave valuable items unattended on the sand while they go for a swim risk having them stolen, so it’s always a good idea to protect your belongings wherever you can.
Safety Apps
The student safety films cover a range of topics from why you shouldn’t carry large sums of money to handling anti-social behaviour in public places. They also provide valuable tips on how to maximise your safety, like downloading the Policelink and Beach Safety apps, and what to do if you find yourself lost or in trouble.
Study Gold Coast values each and every member of the city’s student community and wants to make sure all students have the best possible study experience while living on the Gold Coast – and that includes your personal safety. The films are being rolled out across social media, so make sure you follow the Study Gold Coast and Gold Coast Student Hub social channels and stay safe!