We all know what college students typically do today. Whether it is going bar hopping, to a house party, or drinking with a few people, St Patty’s day is one of the largest drinking/partying holidays of the year. However, there are many dangers that we face when partying, such as being drugged, sexually harassed, sexually assaulted, raped, kidnapped, etc. We need to look out for ourselves and we need to look out for each other when we go out. Here are some things that you can do to make it a night to remember and stay safe:
Pour your own drinks – Make sure that you don’t let anyone pour a drink for you, sometimes it may seem like people have good intentions and are trying to help you, but it leaves you vulnerable to being drugged. When at parties make sure you are pouring your own drinks and if you set your drink down to grab a new one don’t pick it back up. Better safe than sorry.
Be aware of your surroundings – When walking from place to place make sure that you are not just staring down at your phone. You want to make sure you are aware of your surroundings because after parties and bars people wait to find their prey. If you can, carry pepper spray or a taser in order to protect yourself. There are even cat-shaped keychains that you can use for self-defense.
Use the buddy system – If you have to go to the bathroom or leave where you are, make sure you have at least one other person. People are more likely to get attacked when alone and vulnerable, so bringing a friend you can help protect yourself and them. There is power in numbers.
If you see something say something – If you see something that doesn’t look right take action. If you see someone doing something suspicious to someone’s drink tell them that they should probably get a new one, or you can dump out the drink yourself. You never know when a small situation can turn into a big one. If you see someone following someone else, you can intervene by talking and accompanying the person being followed, or by calling out the person following them. Put yourself in their shoes, if you were in their situation what would you want someone else to do?
If a situation does occur please call 911 and get help immediately
Here are some other resources that you may want to know:
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
National Street Harassment Hotline: 1-855-897-5910