Violence on campus. It is nothing new. Unfortunately it is something college campuses see all too often.

A fight will break out, someone gets hurt. Then there are the cases when someone, or some group, pushes it further than that.

On Sunday, the Oswego State community was alerted of a stabbing that occurred outside of Shineman Center early that morning. Four people stabbed a member of our community over a dispute that is suspected to have happened off campus. The victim is expected to be okay.

What has this world come to where violence is the answer to solving problems?

That should not be the case. Throughout our lives, a vast majority of us have learned that violence is never the answer. To reinforce that logic, here are some tips to if you ever find yourself in a violent situation.

Re-evaluate your decisions. Ask yourself, “Is it really worth it to get into this argument in the first place?” If the situation cannot be handled by simply speaking to a person, distance yourself.

Make sure you are always accompanied by a friend should you be walking at night. Not only will you have someone to talk to on your walk back, you will have piece of mind. It is safer to travel in a group than to be alone.

If you do not want to call Oswego State University Police, utilize the RaveGuardian app. It is a free app provided by the school to ensure students’ safety.

Users of the app can set a safety timer that will “notify people you trust to check in on you if you are alone or in an unfamiliar place.”

All the user has to do is remember to deactivate the timer when they get to their desired location. For those that are wary about using the app because they believe University Police can keep tabs on them 24/7, it is not true. Your information can only be used to help you in an emergency.

No one should have to feel they are unsafe on their college campus. Keep these tips in mind and stay safe Oswego.