Spring Break Safety
As everyone is preparing for spring break coming up, it’s important to be mindful of your personal safety and wellbeing. Whether you’re spending the week with your family on a cruise, your friends at the beach, or even traveling abroad, you should be aware of how to have a safe and fun spring break!
Be mindful of local laws
Before you leave for your vacation, research the laws of your destination. For example, some places will enforce a strict curfew during the spring break season. Be sure to look into the local health and safety guidelines of the place you are traveling to so, that you can be prepared when you get there.
Set boundaries for alcohol consumption
It is important to know your limits when it comes to alcohol and practice safe drinking. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers, as this can put you at risk. To further protect yourself, consider using a cup cover to further protect your drink. Establish a plan for getting back safely by having a designated driver or other transportation arranged in advance.
Monitor the weather
Check the weather forecast regularly especially if you are traveling to areas that experience severe weather such as hurricanes or extreme heat. If you are traveling somewhere warm, be sure to apply sunscreen regularly and avoid overexposure to the sun.
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when you are in crowded or unfamiliar places. Be alert and avoid isolated areas when walking at night. Implementing a buddy system with your friends is a great way to make sure no one is by themselves.
Practice Smart Socializing
It is always best practice to stick with your group and avoid isolating yourself with people that you do not know. If you feel uncomfortable in any situation, trust your instincts and remove yourself from that environment. One idea is sharing your location with your group throughout the week. This can help in the chance that someone does get separated from the group, it is easier to track that person down.
Emergency Numbers for Popular Spring Break Spots:
Panama City Beach, FL
Panama City Beach Police Department: (850) 233-5000
Panama City Beach Fire Department: (850) 233-5120
Bay Medical Center (Hospital): (850) 636-3175
Urgent Care - Panama City Beach: (850) 636-4000
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Fort Lauderdale Police Department: (954) 828-5700
Fort Lauderdale Fire Department: (954) 828-6800
Broward Health Medical Center: (954) 355-4400
MD Now Urgent Care: (954) 524-3848
other Emergency Contacts:
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
AAA Roadside Assistance: 1-800-222-4357
US Embassy in Nassau, Bahamas: (242) 322-1181
US Embassy in Cabo, Mexico: (55) 5280-3000
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
