As important as it is to have fun this spring break, remember that safety should always come first.

  • H20!!!! Alcohol is in no way a replacement for water. Even though it is a liquid, alcohol is actually a diuretic that causes you to dehydrate. Be sure to drink enough water before, during, and after consuming alcoholic beverages to avoid a hangover.
  • STRANGER DANGER. Don’t let strangers pour or give drinks to you or your friends. They could have unknown alcohol contents or worse. This rule applies to all genders! The motive for slipping drugs in to drinks is often robbery.
  • CHECK YOUR CALENDAR. If you know you have important events the next day try to abstain from drinking alcoholic beverages the night before. Make sure you know your priorities.
  • DON’T DRINK & DRIVE. I know you’ve probably heard this a million and one times already, but it’s still important to keep in mind. In 2013, there were 10,076 fatalities in the US due to drunk driving. If you’re going to an event where you know you’ll drink, leave your car keys at home. If you plan to get home using public transportation (including Uber), bring a buddy with you for added safety.
  • YOU REQUIRE SUSTENANCE. Drinking on an empty stomach dramatically increases your chances of blacking out, getting alcohol poisoning or, at best, being extremely hungover the next morning.