Staying safe on campus is important, whether it is walking to class or going to a party with friends. Remembering the acronym AWARE can be helpful.
Arrange for rides
Assign a designated driver before heading out. If a car is not an option, services such as IU Safety Escort and the Night Owl bus route are.
Another option would be to take a taxi. Keep in mind most drivers do not use meters, so cab fare could be pricey.
Weigh the risks
We won’t talk you out of drinking on a Friday night. No one else will either. College is about making decision for yourself. We just want you to be safe, so here are a few things you should know.
You probably think it would never happen to you, but drinking can be dangerous. People who are new to drinking typically have low tolerances for alcohol, so do not exceed it.
People who have drunk enough to pass out are at risk of choking to death on their own vomit or suffering from alcohol poisoning. The end result could be the emergency room or, sometimes, death.
Another issue that can come with college parties is sexual assaults.
As many as one in four college women experience unwanted sexual intercourse in the United States, and many of these incidents happen at or after parties. The majority of sexual assaults involve alcohol.
Assistance on Campus
Throughout campus are emergency stations to assist students in need. Hit the red button on any of these stations, which will contact the IU Police Department, and a blue light will flash on the surrounding area.
The button pad above it can also call IUPD, Safety Escort Services and the Motor Assistance program.
React
It is important to know that if you see a friend who is showing signs of alcohol poisoning, do not hesitate to call 911. You will not get in trouble for saving someone’s life.
Be careful of mixed punches, as their alcohol and/or drug content is often a mystery. Do not leave your drink unattended. Never leave a friend alone when he or she has had too much to drink.
Know where you are and how to get home. Carry cash in case a cab is needed, and do not rely on someone you do not know to give you a ride home.
If ever attacked by an aggressor, IUPD’s Leslie Slone, suggests staying mobile. It is more difficult to catch a moving target.
Educate yourself
The Indiana Lifeline Law provides immunity for the crimes of public intoxication, minor possession, minor consumption and minor transport for persons who reveal themselves to law enforcement while seeking medical assistance for a person suffering from an alcohol-related health emergency.
Immunity will be received if the individual gives authorities all necessary information, if the individual stays on the scene and if the individual cooperates with authorities.
The IU Health Center has a Sexual Assault Crisis Service that offers crisis intervention, individual and group counseling and educational programming.
It is available for any member of the IU community free of charge. This service has a 24-hour telephone line, 812-855-8900, which will put you in touch with a specially trained counselor who can answer questions and further assist you.
