<p>In the end, safety is an important issue (though it may get lost in the mix with other factors), So, how safe are Harvard dorms really overall?</p>
<p>I have two kids there, with four years of experience between them. So far, no concerns, though Cambridge is quasi-urban and standard precautions are important. But I don’t think that any of those precautions are necessitated by any inherent safety weakness on the part of the residential facilities.</p>
<p>With the budget cuts a year ago, the administration proposed a number of measures that included cutting back late night shuttles from the libraries to the Houses after 1 a.m. A number of us - parents, students, House Masters, CC posters - hit the roof and launched a protest spurring forums, letter-writing campaigns, media posts, etc. To their credit, the College administration heard the outcry and reversed the decision. That’s been the only safety concern that I’ve had as a parent.</p>
<p>Very safe. I am a very (over?) protective parent, and I’ve been impressed at how tight the dorm and house security is. Swipe card is necessary for outer door (24/7), then key access to suite area, and key to room door. A guard is stationed at her house watching all those who pass into the area. HPD is very visible around campus. I’ve walked alone through dark, deserted areas around campus very late at night on visits to H, and never had problems. One needs to be vigilant, like any campus/city. Only right at Harvard Square, near the T-stop, are there a few sketchy types, but I believe they are more grungy than dangerous.</p>
<p>Even past midnight I’ve never felt it necessary to ride the shuttle for safety reasons.</p>
<p>It’s no Princeton but it’s pretty safe, as long as you have some semblance of an idea as to how to carry about in a city.</p>