Spring Break Safety Tips

Give me Palm Trees, 80 Degrees, and Spring Break Tips

It’s almost that time of the semester where we can take a break from student life and sprawl out in the sun. I know you are all are as sick of the snow as I am, and we are all in need of a vacation from school. Here are some tips to keep you safe wherever you’re headed!

1. Stay Hydrated! If you’re going somewhere sunny and warm (or even if you’re not), stay hydrated! Water is very important for our bodies. Make sure you’re drinking at least one full large water bottle (50 to 64 oz.) a day, and try to drink at least one glass of water at each meal and before you go to bed.
2. Wear Sunscreen. Spring break is when we can take a week off and kick it in a sunny place dreaming of summer. Even in cloudy weather, you could still get a little burnt! It’s very important to wear water-resistant sunscreens if you’re going to be out and about all week. Use at least 15 SPF (we recommend even higher SPF if possible). Reapply after 2 hours if you’re still outside, and don’t forget to grab those sunglasses!
3. Limit alcohol. If you, or someone you know, chose to consume alcohol this is how to be conscious of your actions. Know your limit! You should also have water in between drinks and don’t accept any opened beverages. A good tip is to eat some food before you drink anything. This will slow down the process of alcohol entering your bloodstream, keeping your senses functioning as normal as possible. Another thing to remember: NOTHING can get you sober except TIME. Your liver can remove alcohol from your system at a rate of one drink per hour.
4. Safe Sex. If you’re planning on being sexually active, be safe about it! You need consent and a condom. Also, stay sober! No one can give consent if they are under the influence, and it is only given if “yes” is said. CONSENT IS EVERYTHING! Condoms can prevent you from getting STI’s, but it’s never a bad idea to get tested. In fact, be on the lookout for UNK Student Health’s Free STI testing week going on April 8th-12th.
5. Have a safe travel plan. Traveling can be a little sketchy sometimes. If you’re worried about traveling by yourself, bring a friend along! Before you arrive at your destination, make sure to research the area and find out information on: possible scams for tourists, emergency phone numbers, and/or crime rates. Be sure to keep your personal belongings close to you and in your eye sight at all times. Lastly, always send your location and/or itinerary to someone you trust at home.

We hope these tips can help you have a safe and fun spring break! We look forward to seeing you all back on campus on the 25th.

Resources:
https://www.safetytalkideas.com/safetytalks/hydration/
https://familydoctor.org/hydration-why-its-so-important/
https://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/sunscreens-explained
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm
https://www.ourbodiesourselves.org/book-excerpts/health-article/top-ten-safer-sex-tips/
https://expertvagabond.com/travel-safety-tips/
https://www.consumerreports.org/hotels/check-for-bed-bugs-hotel/