In preparation for spring break, The Badger Herald is doing a three-part series examining spring break, today we look at the dangers associated with spring break.
For students, spring break is a time for fun and relaxation. But safety is another concern.
The combination of sun, alcohol and sex promoted on many spring-break trips could lead to situations that are potentially dangerous, experts say.
Some travel agencies are providing services to student travelers to better prepare them for trips and some of the dangers they may face.
The Wisconsin Union Travel Center provides informational meetings that include speakers from the Rape Crisis Center to all of their customers.
They also provide representatives on each trip who are there to provide assistance to students.
Whether going through the Travel Center or another agency, education is a key factor in ensuring a safe trip.
“Our trips have been really safe and I think it’s because we do warn [customers] ahead of time,” said Melissa Kaltenbach, director of Wisconsin Union Travel Center. “We believe strongly in educating them of the situation they are going into, and we especially talk to them about the cultural aspects.”
Common sense is another factor in preventing potential violence, Kaltenbach said.
“We tell people don’t do what you wouldn’t do in Madison. Be aware of your surroundings and know that adding alcohol to that makes you a little less aware,” Kaltenbach said. “Listen carefully to your intuition. If you think something is not safe, remove yourself from that situation.”
The combination of alcohol consumption and strange surroundings means women need to be especially careful of the threat of sexual assault, said Susan Crowley, director of prevention services at University Health Services.
“Don’t go out by yourself,” Crowley said. “Make sure you are out with people you know and trust.”
Drugs like Rohypnol are also concerns for women drinking during spring break. More commonly known as the date-rape drug, Rohypnol is an extremely strong, quick acting sedative that is easily dissolved in liquid. It causes victims to pass out and often erases their memory.
“We have every reason to think it is still a popular drug,” Crowley said. “The best way to avoid [Rohypnol] is to make sure you pour your own drink, keep control of your drink and that you don’t accept an open drink from anyone.”
Crowley said with the trend of increased sexual activity on spring break it is important to remember to always use protection, even when participating in oral sex.
“Continue to use condoms and other kinds of protection particularly with people you don’t know well,” Crowley said.
Crowley suggests finding alternative activities to the all-you-can-drink events that tend to increase risk.
“The whole key is moderation,” she said. “Participate in a variety of activities but make sure they are not all drinking activities and don’t travel by yourself. Travel with people you know and trust who can help you determine when it is time to stop drinking or get out of a situation that may become harmful to you.”
