As that special time of year nears – when sleepless college students turn in their books and backpacks for suits and umbrella drinks – Marcia Peot, full time police officer and Chief Safety Officer at StreetSafe, wants to remind students that safety should be a top priority. She offers the following advice:
1. Don’t let your guard down. A vacation is not an excuse to throw caution to the wind and do something you wouldn’t normally do or put yourself in an unsafe situation.
2. Research your vacation spot before leaving, especially if it’s a foreign country. Find out if there are dangerous areas that should be avoided, familiarize yourself with local laws and customs, and know where to go and what to do in case of an emergency.
3. Stay in groups or use the buddy system. You are a greater target when alone.
4. A stranger is still a stranger even on vacation. Do not accept a ride or go off somewhere alone with a person you don’t know.
5. Do not drink excessively. When you are intoxicated, your physical reflexes, awareness of your surroundings and ability to make decisions become impaired, making you an easy target.
6. Never leave your drink unattended and do not accept beverages from anyone other than the bartender or waiter.
7. The beaten path is the better path. Stick to populated and well-lit areas, don’t take short cuts and familiarize yourself with the area before heading out.
8. Make sure your hotel room is locked at all times. Do not advertise your room number, open the door for anyone you are not expecting or bring strangers back to your room.
While all Spring Breakers are entitled to their own dose of fun and relaxation, leaving safety behind can have tragic consequences so remember these tips while traveling. And please, don’t forget the sunscreen!
A Blog From the American Society of Safety Engineers