HEATHER BORLAND — As Spring Semester midterms and spring break approach, we know students enjoy

celebrating their week away. However, as history shows, this can be a risky time of

year for students, particularly when it comes to health and safety.

Once students have made their travel arrangements, students should also consider the follow guidelines for staying safe. You have probably heard of some of these already, but below are a few tips to keep in mind and be aware of to ensure a safe and healthy spring break trip!

Buddy System

Always make sure you have a buddy with you anywhere you go. Never go anywhere alone. The importance of this is self-explanatory. Remember never to leave your buddy behind or lose your buddy.

On the go . . .

Take turns behind the wheel. Whoever sits shotgun should stay awake to keep the driver company. Make sure everyone has a valid driver’s license and the vehicle registration and proof of insurance are in the car before driving off.

In hotels . . .

When you check in at the front desk, use discretion in saying your room number out loud for anyone in the lobby to hear. Reserve a room that’s above the 1st floor but below the 6th floor. When you get to your room, check that all of the window and door locks are secure. Almost all hotels offer safes. Use them!

At the ATM . . .

Try to go the ATM in groups. When you approach the ATM, do a full 360 degree scan, looking completely around you to see if anyone is hanging out where they shouldn’t be. If someone is creeping you out, go to another ATM.

Drink Responsibly: While drinking . . .

Decide before you go out what your limits should be. If you do decide to drink, know the liquor laws of wherever you’ll be vacationing. Always keep an eye on your drink. Do not drink from open beverage sources like punch bowls, pitchers or tubs.

In the water . . .

Drinking and sun can equal a bad sunburn and an even worse hangover. Take it slow and stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. If you start feeling faint or lightheaded, get shade and water immediately. Use waterproof sunscreen at least SPF 30 and reapply often.

Let’s talk about sex . . .

First, don’t believe the hype about our hook-up culture. Not everyone is hooking up. Choices to have sex or not to have sex are extremely personal and shouldn’t be influenced by anyone’s mandates but your own. Know what consent is and respect it for all forms of intimacy. If you do choose to have sex, make sure it’s protected.

A full list of these tips can be found here: http://www.safespringbreak.org/safety-tips/ Have a safe, fun and healthy spring break!