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Important spring break safety tips for any vacation location

February 26, 2014

The supply chain management sophomore  said she went through a travel agent because she and her friends are not going with their parents.

“We booked through a travel agent because we are mostly traveling by ourselves,”  Kubbe said. “If anything happens to go wrong, they will be there for us.”

Dennis Martell , director of health education at Olin Health Center,  said based on a study of students traveling for spring break last year, there actually is a misconception that students drink heavily.

“We think everyone drinks, but a majority don’t,”  Martell said. “Don’t buy into the misperception that everyone does drink.” 

Martell also said after looking at that research and talking with students, there are four important safety tips students should follow on their trips no matter where they go.

Stay with the same group of friends

Kubbe said she planned her trip with nine of her closest girl friends and 10 of her guy friends because she knows she can trust them wherever they go.

“It’s really good to have a solid group of people that you know who are going down with you,” Kubbe said.

Watch out for friends

Martell said always knowing where everyone is will eliminate panic.

Kubbe said she will use the buddy system during her trip and go nowhere by herself, especially if she or another friend is too drunk.

Be wary of predators

“If it doesn’t seem right, then get out,” Martell said. “Know where you are, know how to get out and know how to get home.”

Martell said students should also be conscious of their sexual decisions and learn about the destination country’s culture and laws.

“Be sure to communicate your intentions and boundaries,” Martell said. “Don’t abandon the normal things that you would do for yourself to stay safe.”

Pick a designated driver

Martell said this tip applies to anyone because it is important to recognize when the driver is not safe.

“Don’t be a bystander,” Martell said. “Stand in and protect yourself.”

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