The Red and Black

Issue date: 3/6/08 Section: Opinions

Keep an eye out

Don't let getting wasted turn into a waste of good judgment. Be careful.

As students prepare to leave for spring break, it is important to remember to be aware of where you are, who you are with and what you are putting into your body.

Acquaintance rape is a crime that can occur before you know it, even if you're careful. Contrary to the belief that rapists are hiding in the bushes or in the shadows of the parking garage, almost two-thirds of all rapes were committed by someone who is known to the victim, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey.

When you're out partying, don't take drinks from anyone, even if you know the person. Ensure your drinks are safe by always watching the bartender make them. Trust is a good thing to have, but when alcohol is involved, things get a little fuzzy.

Alcohol can be just as dangerous as "date rape" drugs. It impairs judgment, your greatest asset when you're out having a good time.

While you're watching out for what you're drinking, you also should be aware of how much you're drinking. Too much alcohol - and that definition differs from person to person - won't just send you to the toilet. Alcohol poisoning and sexual assault are things you should think about when you're knocking back shot after shot.

Having fun doesn't mean you shouldn't take care of yourself and others and have a safe and happy spring break.

Remember: A fun time is not necessarily a drunk time.

- Phillip Kisubika for the editorial board

Break for safety

We hope your spring breaks are restful and fun, but don't forget to play it safe.

Spring break is a time to focus on relaxing and having fun, but we encourage you to follow a few easy safety tips that will keep your break carefree and easy.

First things first: before leaving, take care to secure your apartment and remove or hide valuables. A rash of burglaries inevitably occurs over breaks from school - make sure it doesn't happen to you.

Wherever you go, be sure to exercise a few standard safety tips.

Travel in groups with friends - if you weren't already going to. Everyone can look out for each other.

Keep your money safe using a money belt, for example. Don't carry all your cash with you everywhere you go. Consider using traveler's checks and credit cards.

If you are traveling abroad and plan to use your credit card, make sure you notify your credit card company in advance. If a rash of suspicious-looking transactions suddenly appears, it often will assume your identity has been stolen and freeze your account - the last thing you need when you're lost in an unfamiliar city, your phone is dead and you have no cash.

Following these sensible measures will ensure your spring break is the carefree vacation you deserve. For more, check out www.safecampusesnow.org.

- Matt Brandenburgh for the editorial board

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