Spring Break. The long-awaited and much-anticipated week where college students roam free, go crazy, and leave school behind. It’s a glorious week filled with old friends, family, parties, various adventures, and a never-ending good time. Having fun is a necessity to have a fulfilling spring break; so, for whatever your definition of ‘fun’ may be, here are a few tips to stay safe while still having a blast.

We have all heard “be safe,” being yelled to us from parents and friends on multiple occasions throughout our lives and during a week where rules are considered to be no longer necessary, many see it as an excuse to be reckless. Needless to say, decisions that involve having a good time and being a little daring do not have to be so incredibly stupid that it may end up hurting you long before spring break is over.

If you and your friends/family are going away, whether it be to a foreign country, a different state, or to a weekend getaway – always make sure that someone knows where you are. Leaving, even if it’s just for a little while, and not telling anyone where you are headed can potentially be one of the most dangerous things you can do while on vacation - especially if you are leaving with someone you do not know. Use common sense – do not leave with strangers or go anywhere that makes you feel uncomfortable or provokes anxiety.

Furthermore, if you do want to leave your group, always use the buddy system. As dorky as it sounds, the buddy system is one of the best systems to use when going out with a group of people or leaving the group you are already with. While still letting the rest of your friends know where you are headed, leaving with a friend is a lot safer than walking alone by yourself – especially at night. If you do find yourself alone, regardless if it is the middle of the day or 3 in the morning, make sure you have your phone nearby and have a destination in mind.

Quite possibly your biggest asset to stay safe is your cell phone. Don’t forget to charge your phone before you go out, and if possible, keep an extra, charged battery on hand or bring your charger with you. A dead phone is never helpful and has the potential to help you or be completely useless.

Hopefully, basic safety rules and common sense will prevail this spring break as you go crazy, live it up, and enjoy a week of no homework and classes!