No matter how informed students are of the potential dangers that exist when going to off-campus bars, they’re still going to go.
“Students get lulled into a false sense of security and drop their guard,” said Todd Pelazza, director of Public Safety.
With easy access to alcohol, students need to understand their limits, he said.
“Alcohol impairs, and leads to poor decision-making,” said Pelazza.
To inform students of cautious behavior when facing potential dangers, Pelazza offered five key ways to stay safe when navigating the bar scene.
1. Know what to do in case of an emergency. You can call the Department of Public Safety for assistance and/or advice in any emergency situation. For immediate response in an off-campus emergency, dial 911.
2. Keep valuables, such as money, ID and keys, with you at all times. Do not leave them in a coat pocket unattended. A small purse will allow you to keep your belongings with you – even on the dance floor. Another option is to keep your money, keys and ID in the front pockets of your pants.
3. Do not accept drinks from strangers. If you do, realize that there may be consequences, such as that person expecting something from you in return.
4. Tell a friend or roommate, who is not going out with you, where you are going and when you expect to return. Call that friend or roommate if you are going to be late so that he/she will not worry about you. Also, go out with friends you can trust; if something goes wrong they will be there to assist you.
5. If someone is bothering or harassing you after you express no interest, tell a bouncer or a friend. Be forceful and assertive; do not get talked into doing something you do not want to do.
The following are a few more facts all bar-goers should know.
When drinking alcoholic beverages, you increase your chances of becoming a victim of a crime because your communication skills and judgement are impaired.
Always be careful when leaving the bar. If you are harassed or followed, call the Department of Public Safety at (203) 254-4090 or dial 911.
Many students have already picked up on this information.
“I always make sure I’m around my friends, and we keep an eye on each other,” said Melissa Manganelli ’10.
“Our number one concern is students’ safety,” said Pelazza. “We constantly want students to think safety-minded.”
Leave a Reply