Tips for staying safe at college parties:
After the age of 21, parties become a big part of young adults’ social lives. Sarah Garwood, MD, a Washington University physician specializing in adolescent medicine at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, shares advice on how young adults can stay safe at college parties.
- Eat before you go to a party. This helps slow down alcohol absorption.
- Only go out with trusted friends. Make sure you feel comfortable and that you know them well enough that they’ll look out for you and take care of you in case anything happens.
- Plan your return home in advance. Is there going to be a designated driver? Will you take a car service? Make sure you have a safe way back home.
- Don’t ride with someone who has been drinking. If you drink alcohol, be careful about how much and what you’re drinking. Don’t drink too much or too quickly. Pay attention to how much alcohol you’ve had. Switch to water if you’ve had enough.
- Don’t accept food or drinks from anyone. And don’t leave a drink or food unattended.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Figure out where you’re going. Keep your phone charged. Figure out the emergency exits and the easiest ways out.
- Stick together as a group. Don’t walk home alone and stay in well-lit areas. Use well-lit populated routes.
When it comes to safety at college parties, planning is critical and prevention is the best approach to keep your teen safe and out of trouble.
