Six Safe Party Tips

Homecoming, Halloween, and tailgates bring parties and celebrations around campus. Take note of these tips for attending these gatherings responsibly. 

Go with a friend or in a group whenever possible. 

There’s safety in numbers. Travel and park in well-lit areas, and wait for rides and friends in front of an open business or well-lit entrance.  

• Use 624-WALK, Rave Guardian,  or Gopher Chauffeur if you find yourself walking alone. 

Think safety first when choosing to drink.

Limit the number of drinks you consume to balance safety and enjoyment. Alcohol affects everyone differently, so it’s important to pace yourself and learn when enough is enough. 

• Never accept open drinks and don’t leave your drink unattended. 
• Drink water between alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated.

Know there’s more than alcohol and substances.

Don’t feel pressured to drink if you don’t want to! Participate in other activities like dancing, chatting with others, or watching a game that’s sure to be a good time.

• Check out the Twin Cities events calendar and GopherLink for sober fun with the campus community.
• You always have the right to leave if the party is no longer a right fit for you.

If you see violence or sense you or anyone might be in danger, call 911.

If you see something, say something. UMPD will be patrolling the area during major events to help everyone celebrate safely.

• You can also use blue light kiosks to call 911 in an emergency.
• Know the signs of alcohol poisoning if you see someone unresponsive due to alcohol. Remember, it’s your responsibility to get immediate help, without fear of punishment from Minnesota’s Medical Amnesty law.

If you came with them, leave with them.

You should always have a plan before getting to an event. Never leave by yourself. If you happen to leave with a different group of people, let your friends know who you’re going with and where you’ll be. 

•  Sharing location with people you trust can be a great way to help keep track of your friends. Plenty of (free!) iOS and Android apps are available for download.
• If a situation doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Brush up on these 5 D’s and be an active bystander.

Ask "What's my name?" before you get in an Uber or Lyft.

Use rideshare apps or a carpool to ensure you get to your destination safely. Please take proper safety precautions if you plan to use those modes of transport. 

• Tell a trusted friend your current location and anticipated destination.
• Check the vehicle make, model, and license plate before you get in. 
• Utilize in-app safety features such as reporting unsafe drivers or live safety support.