Every year thousands of college students participate in some type of spring break activity whether it is in a tropical climate, a ski trip, or a road trip. By avoiding high-risk behaviors during this time period, you can ensure that your Spring Break is enjoyable and that you return safely to the UIS campus feeling refreshed for your Monday March 19 classes.
Get There Safely
Here are some common sense tips that can help drivers keep their minds and eyes on the road:
• Never apply make-up or shave while driving.
• Use care if you’re drinking hot beverages while driving. Get a spill-proof mug.
• Don’t allow conversations with passengers to draw your attention from what’s happening around you.
• If you’re looking for an address, or trying to view scenery, pull off the road at a safe location.
• If a stinging insect enters your vehicle, pull off the road at a safe location before you try to remove it.
• Trying to change a CD or radio station can draw your attention from the road. Try waiting until you stop to make the change or purchase a CD player that accepts multiple compact discs.
• For drivers who smoke, use care when lighting your cigarette. If you drop your cigarette, pull off the road at a safe spot before trying to find it.
• Being unfamiliar with a vehicle’s equipment and console can be a distraction for drivers. If you’re driving a borrowed or rented vehicle, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with its features. Be sure you know how headlights, windshield wipers, and other safety equipment work before you hit the road.
• Consider staying off the roads when weather is bad, or if you’re already on the road, find a safe spot to pull off.
• Be respectful of other passengers and service personnel when traveling on commercial carriers.
Alcohol, Sex and Judgment
We bring up the topic of alcohol and sexual decision making in the context of spring break because, for some people, there are some obvious connections between the two. In fact, a person could make the case that sex under the influence might be as risky as driving under the influence. Because alcohol affects judgment and lowers inhibitions, people sometimes do things when drunk that they would not do sober. That includes sometimes having sex when they normally would not or having sex with someone that they normally would not. Not only do they need to deal with the fact that when they sober up they remember why they normally do not engage in this behavior, but they have just exposed themselves to a number of risks. While the physical risks of contracting a sexually transmitted disease or infection, being infecting with the HIV virus, or getting pregnant are obvious, there are other risks that we sometimes do not discuss that come into play when we talk about sex and alcohol.
For some people there is a sense of regret about breaking their own sexual boundaries. Sometimes it is regret at rushing a relationship too fast. Although
most college students aged 18-24 have had sex before entering college, it is during the college years that they are at the greatest risk for sexual health issues. When you add alcohol or other drugs to the situation, this risk drastically increases. Therefore, it is helpful to make an extra effort to practice good judgment on Spring Break by following these tips:
• Avoid secluded places (this may even mean your room or your partner’s) until you trust your partner.
• Do not spend time alone with someone who makes you feel uneasy or uncomfortable. Follow your instincts and leave a situation that you do not feel good about.
• Stay sober and aware. If you are with someone you do not know very well, be aware of what is going on around you and try to stay in control. Also, be aware of your date’s ability to consent to sexual activity – you may become guilty of committing rape if the other person is not in a condition to respond or react.
• Know what you want. Be clear about what kind of relationship you want with another person. If you are not sure, then ask the other person to respect your feelings and to give you time. Do not allow yourself to be subject to peer pressure or encouraged to do something that you do not want to do.
• Go out with a group of friends and watch out for each other.
• Do not be afraid to ask for help if you feel threatened.
• Never leave your drink alone or drink anything that you did not see opened or poured.
Sun Sense
Overexposure to the sun is another important consideration. Whether you are on the sand or slopes, protection is a must during your Spring Break excursion. To lessen the risks of skin cancer, premature aging, and immune system deficiencies:
• Wear clothing that covers the most skin, such as long-sleeved shirts with collars, long pants, sun-safe swimsuits, socks and shoes.
• In colder climates, choose darker colors of fabrics because they absorb UV Rays better. In warmer climates, choose lightweight loose fitting fabrics, because they reflect UV rays and allow for natural cooling.
• Wear UV Ray-blocking sunglasses.
• Wear wide-brimmed hats with at least a 3” brim.
• Use sunscreen every day.
• Apply sunscreen liberally over all exposed skin areas.
• Choose a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 15 or greater.
• Choose broad-spectrum sunscreens that block both UVA and UVB.
• Choose water-resistant sunscreens that will not wash off as easily.
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
• Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out in the sun.
• UV Rays are most intense between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., so plan outdoor activities before or after peak sun intensity hours.
• If you must be outdoors during peak sun hours, use shade or find shaded areas.
If you do have Spring Break travel plans, we wish you a safe and enjoyable trip. If you do not have Spring Break plans, do not feel badly about that. Many UIS upper class students and alumni report that their most satisfying Spring Breaks were those when they simply went home, got caught up on sleep, ate well, worked ahead for classes, and spent quality time with hometown friends and family.
Source: The Bacchus Network Safe Spring Break Campaign, 2007 http://www.bacchusgamma.org/safe-spring-break-campaign.asp