Preparing for Spring Break

Spring Break is right around the corner!

We want your student to have a wonderful time, but more importantly, we want them to be SAFE! We have included several important tips that we hope you will share with your student to ensure a successful and safe Spring Break:

• Make sure someone close to you knows where you are going, including the name and phone number of where you will be staying. Let them know when you plan on returning. In addition, it doesn’t hurt to notify with a call when you arrive and potentially on your vacation to ensure you are safe.
• Be sure to make copies of all forms of identification. Having a copy of your identification will come in handy if your wallet gets lost or stolen.
• If you are staying in a hotel, be sure to use discretion and lock your door at all times! Keep valuables in a safe in the room or at the front desk. In addition, if possible, program the front desk number into your phone so you have it at all times.
• Use sunscreen, no matter where you are headed on your vacation. Use at least SPF 15 and reapply especially after swimming or sweating excessively often. Limit sun exposure during the hottest hours of the sun’s rays (between 10am and 4pm).
• Use insect repellents when outdoors (apply sunscreen before applying insect repellents) or wear long-sleeved shirts and pants. Mosquito bed nets can also be used if you are overseas or outside.
• Keep hydrated by drinking lots of water! Avoid alcohol, carbonated soda, and other sugary drinks, especially when in the sun. 
• Protect yourself at all times. Make sure to use a buddy system ALWAYS with a group of people that you are familiar with when you go out, even if you are familiar with the location. Trust your instincts at all times and if you are uncomfortable, leave the situation as soon as possible.
• Take action if you are concerned about someone.
  • Direct: Confront all involved and show you are a witness to what is happening.
    “Are you ok? Are they bothering you? Do you want to go home?”
  • Distract: Create an interruption that separates target and aggressor.
    “Can you help me with something?” or “Hey, I want you to meet someone.”
  • Delegate: Engage allies. If your friend looks drunk, you should check on them.
    “Let’s call someone.”
• Make smart decisions. Know that it is illegal to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol if you are under the age of 21. Do not drink if you are under 21 years of age. If you choose to drink alcohol, utilize the protective strategies below to assist you:
  • Limit yourself to no more than one drink per hour and make sure to eat before you drink.
  • Designate a sober driver or identify a car service to ensure you do not drive under the influence of alcohol.
  • Watch who makes your drink, and keep your drink in your possession at all times.
  • Set a limit on how many drinks you are going to have when you drink, and stick to it.
  • Know the signs of alcohol poisoning and do not be afraid to call for medical assistance if needed.
  • Avoid people or situations that make you feel pressured to drink, and do not pressure others to drink.