Programming for a Safe Spring Break
February 23, 2016
Every year thousands of college students participate in some type of spring break activity whether it is a service project, vacation, or working to earn extra cash. Though it is not the norm, some students engage in high-risk behaviors during this time period. It is crucial for peer educators to provide students with information and strategies that will help minimize harm and, hopefully, make the break a positive experience.
Through the promotion of safe and sober driving, responsible decision-making, planned strategies for personal safety, and avoiding high-risk drinking, we hope to reduce if not eliminate the number of injuries and deaths among college and university students during the spring break period. And, since healthy decision-making such as choosing to drive safe and sober are life skills, your efforts will save lives long after spring break is over.
Some topics to consider for Safe Spring Break programming:
· Impaired and/or distracted driving
· Sexual violence
· Alcohol poisoning
· Sexual health
· Tobacco / e-cigarettes
· Sun protection
· Seat belt use
We also recognize that some students utilize the time to participate in service activities or even go home for a little while. We want those road trips to be as safe as possible, which is why we encourage campuses to conduct educational programs ranging from seatbelt use, to impaired or distracted driving prevention, to making sure fatigue does not set in while students are on the road.
It is safe to say that for the vast majority of students, spring break is a fun, positive, healthy break in the school year. It’s a time to rest, relax and enjoy time with friends. Of course, it is our goal to make sure that is the case for all students, which is why so many campuses conduct a Safe Spring Break campaign each year.
For in-depth tips on programming and planning for Safe Spring Break activities, download the guide. It’s free for NASPA Institutional Members and $19.95 for non-members.