Staying safe while enjoying the break
Ryan Barfuss, head of the drug and alcohol prevention and health education department at USU, said he wants students to understand the risks that accompany Spring Break fun.
“Spring Break is a time where people let their guard down. People tend to drink more and are not cautious about their alcohol intake,” he said.
The Wellness Education Center teaches a system to monitor alcohol consumption called the 0123 Guidelines. Zero means that underaged, pregnant, medicated and chemically dependent people along with designated drivers should not drink alcohol at all. Barfuss said one means those who are age 21 can have one alcoholic drink an hour, two means two drinks in a setting and three means no more than three a day, Barfuss said. These guidelines are meant to keep alcohol consumers at a low risk for impairment prolems, he said.
“Whether a person decides to consume alcohol or not, never leave a drink unattended,” Barfuss said.
Over Spring Break, Barfuss said to use precautions that insure protection against sexually transmitted diseases and emotional issues that come with sexcapades.
“People think that birth control is enough but it will not prevent STDs. When one is looking to hook up all common sense goes out the door with safety and being respectful,” he said.
Stephanie Hodgson, senior majoring in community health, said there is increased drug violence in bordering towns of Mexico.
“Arizona colleges are counseling students to stay in populated areas and some are suggesting to stay out of Mexico completely,” Hodgson said.
She said there are a lot of problems in Mexico because they are waiting for Americans on Spring Break to target. Citizens of other countries look for non-natives, especially Americans, to rob, she said.
If Spring Break vacation is in another country, Barfuss said to make sure the laws of the land are understood before venturing there. Prepare all documentation and passports ahead of time because they will be needed, he said.
Barfuss said to always travel in pairs, with each person keeping an eye out for the other. He said when traveling to warmer climates, students need to remember to use sunscreen to protect themselves from sun damage and be conscious of staying hydrated.
Those who are driving home also have some safety tips to think about. Barfuss said to make sure all vehicles are prepared for breakdowns and driving in winter weather. Most importantly, he said, buckle up on the road.
“Students need to be aware that when they come back to school USU still has the same policies and they need to be wary of that,” Barfuss said.
–catherine.meidell@aggiemail.usu.edu