Spring Break Safety Tips - brought to you by SCN Volunteers

Spring Break is finally here!! I am sure most of you are as excited as we are to have a nice relaxing week off from school. Whether you are going to the beach with friends, heading to the mountains, or just staying here in Athens, one thing we all need to remember is to be safe. In light of the recent events of the two girls murdered at Auburn and UNC-Chapel Hill, we are reminded of how easily one can fall victim to such horrific crimes. While you are out having a good time with friends please remember these important safety tips:

Travel in numbers. People are less likely to get into a bad situation when they are in a group. You are 68% less likely to be a victim if you are with one other person and 95% less likely if you with 3 or more people.

Never leave a bar with someone you just met, especially if you are in an unfamiliar town or another country. Know the difference between making friends and allowing yourself to be alone with a stranger.

Take a business card from the hotel you are staying at. If you do get separated from your group you will know how to get back to the hotel.

Do not keep all of your money in your purse or wallet. Hide money in your suitcase so that if your purse or wallet were to get stolen you have extra.

Do not leave your drink unattended and do not take a drink from a stranger.

Do not leave someone who has blacked out unattended. Stay with them and check on them throughout the night. If their breathing becomes shallow, if they can not be woken, and if their skin becomes pale, call 911.

Above all, trust your instincts. If a situation does not feel right then get out of it.

At Safe Campuses Now we believe that knowledge is power. Be aware of your surroundings and make sure that you have a back up plan with the people you are traveling with. While spring break is a time to let loose and have a good time with friends, we hope that you will still make smart and responsible choices. Wherever your spring break plans take you, we hope that you have a sunny, relaxing and safe spring break.

Stay Safe,

Amanda Smith and Laura Stearns - SCN Student Directors