SAFETY: Upcoming Spring break 2009
Dear Public Safety Friends,
As Spring Break approaches here are some tips to keep in mind:
Having fun during Spring Break should always be a top priority. You are creating happy memories
that will be the inspiration for many tales to come. Following these few common sense safety tips will
ensure that you and your friends return safely to share those stories. Craziness and reckless abandon are often present
during Spring Break getaways, but it is always better to be safe than to be sorry. Safety precautions are not meant to be
deterrents to enjoyment. They are simply intended to help ensure the absence of anything but fun, both while you are
away, and when you return.
Before leaving:
• Secure your dorm room or apartment.
• Unplug all appliances.
• Make sure all windows are closed and locked.
• Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with someone back home.
Use the buddy system:
• There is safety in numbers and it is best to do things as a group. Try to
have at least three members of your group with you at all times when
leaving your hotel to frolic and have fun. Don’t leave a friend behind. If
you go together, leave together!
Drinking:
• If you are of legal drinking age and you do decide to drink, do so responsibly.
• 98% of spring breakers injured were intoxicated.
• Keep your drink in sight at all times. Leaving it unattended gives anyone the opportunity to slip something into your
drink and take advantage of you.
• DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE. Use a designated driver or choose public transportation.
• Drinking makes it easier for a person to become either the victim or the perpetrator of a sexual assault.
Traveling:
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Traveler’s checks are best. Leave
credit cards & ATM cards locked in a
secure place.
• Keep track of your baggage and personal
belongings at all times.
• Lock you hotel door at all times.
The most important spring break safety tip is to use common sense. With these safety tips in mind, stay safe, and enjoy
your sun-filled spring break!
Please see short video on a special report from CNN on Spring Break- (click) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UhzYX9ubZQ
Thank you for your continued help.
Ricardo Morales
Manager Crime Prevention Programs
Columbia University
Department of Public Safety
212-854-8513
