The Red and Black

Issue date: 9/7/07 Section: News

Media Credit: JULIA NORMAN Michael DeLuca attempts to walk in a straight line for UGA police Sgt. Tipton while wearing goggles that simulate intoxication near the Tate Student Center Thursday. [Click to enlarge]

For football fans, an illegal procedure won't just result in a five-yard penalty, it could land them with a hefty fine or a night in jail.

That's the message of Safe Campuses Now, a local non-profit focusing on crime awareness and prevention. Members of Safe Campuses Now were stationed outside the Tate Center Thursday to inform students of increased enforcement of alcohol laws, such as open-container, underage drinking and DUI.

Keith Sims, the organization's executive director, said the organization tries not to be preachy in its message but hopes repetition will help students think about the potential consequences of their actions.

Representatives from Safe Campuses Now, who are collaborating with University Police, will be at Tate or East Village Commons every Thursday before home games from 1 to 4 p.m. providing literature and demonstrations.

Amanda Smith, co-student director of Safe Campuses Now, said she joined the organization after listening to the story of a man serving a 13-year prison sentence for DUI and vehicular homicide.

"It really opened my eyes to the dangers and consequences" of using alcohol irresponsibly, she said.

Tailgaters also should be aware of police enforcing a variety of regulations instituted during the last several years as part of the University's Gameday Gameplan.

University Police Chief Jimmy Williamson said the University made no changes to the plan this year but is working to better enforce some aspects of it.

The majority of the plan focuses on safety and keeping a tranquil atmosphere for on-campus residents, he said.

"If [tailgaters] can just drink at a responsible level and be mindful of others, I think it should be a great day for every- body," he said.

Here are a few of the policies tailgaters should be aware of this year:

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