12 Tips For Staying Safe At College Parties

College parties can be a lot of fun; you hang out with your friends, dance a little (or a lot), maybe get lucky with someone… As a woman in college, however, I also know that there are risks associated with attending parties, so here are a few tips I’ve picked up over the years for staying safe at college parties!

1) If you decide to drink, know how much you’re consuming.

Most of us have needed to take care of an overly drunk person at least once, and we know it’s not a fun time. Don’t be that overly drunk person-the people around you will be grateful. Also, drinking too much just isn’t safe or healthy.

2) Keep track of your drinks at all times.

Even if you’re with people you trust. This may seem too cautious, but I can’t count the number of headlines I’ve read about people (usually women) getting roofied at a college party. And on that note… 

3) Don’t roofie anyone.

Just don’t. This isn’t so much a tip for keeping yourself safe, but it’s something that I cannot believe still needs to be said. Don’t roofie someone. If you’re considering slipping something into another person’s drink, don’t do it. As a general rule of thumb, don’t mess with other people’s drinks.

4) Use the buddy system.

If you’re going out, take a friend with you. Not only will it be more fun, but you’ll know that someone knows where you are.

5) Wear comfortable clothes.

You won’t have fun if you’re in pain because your shoes are too high or if you’re worrying that your clothes are too tight. Wear what you’re comfortable in, and you’ll have a much better time.

6) Keep your phone and ID on you at all times, as well as some cash.

The wallets that stick on the back of your phone are amazing for holding small things like a school ID or license and some money or a key. You never know when you might need $5, so it’s best to be prepared.

7) Know where you’re going before you go there.

Yes, it’s fun to go with the flow, but be sure to ask where you’re headed in case something happens and you need to know where you are.

8) Be honest with the people around you about your limits.

Be it alcohol consumption, time spent partying, or anything else, don’t be afraid to set your limits. You know what you can handle, so be sure to respect that.

9) Don’t go out on an empty stomach.

That’s just common sense.

10) Keep yourself hydrated during the night.

Especially if you’re drinking alcohol and/or dancing. 

11) Respect boundaries; yours and others’.

Don’t be that person that pushes themselves or someone else too far. 

12) Above all else, trust your instincts.

If a place looks sketchy to you and you don’t feel safe, get out and dodge. If someone starts grinding on you without your consent, tell them to stop or move away, or both. If you feel uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation.

Keep yourself safe. Making sure you’re always staying safe at college parties can be hard, but if you know how to take care of yourself, they can also be really fun.

featured image source: weheartit.com