As fall break approaches, it is important for UNL students to remain mindful of travel safety best practices. Whether you're hitting the road with friends or going on an adventure, these tips will help you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
Traveling with friends
- Share your location: Before you leave, share your location with your friends. This way, if you are separated, everyone can easily stay connected.
- Altitude and alcohol: Be aware of how alcohol affects you at higher altitudes. To practice harm reduction, alternate between alcoholic beverages and water to stay hydrated and safe.
- Choose wisely: If you're somewhere new or unfamiliar, opt for low-alcohol (ABV) drinks like hard seltzers instead of high-proof liquors.
- Document your trip: Take photos of the places you visit and the people you meet: they can prove invaluable if you need to retrace your steps later.
- Stay vigilant: Always be aware of your surroundings. Trust your instincts and avoid situations that don't suit you.
Driving with friends
Whether you're driving to the Indiana football game or returning home, these safety tips will help ensure a smooth and safe trip:
- Stay vigilant: Keep your gas tank as full as possible and take breaks during long trips to stretch, eat, check messages, and change drivers if necessary to avoid drowsiness.
- Avoid risky behaviors: Obey traffic laws, avoid distractions like texting, obey speed limits, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you plan to drink, designate a sober driver or arrange a ride home safely.
- Plan your route: Check weather conditions, road conditions and traffic updates before heading out. Allow plenty of time and share your itinerary and ETA with someone.
- Prepare a roadside travel kit: Keep essentials like a cell phone and charger, first aid kit, flashlight, flares, jumper cables, tire gauge, jack, basic repair tools, safety gloves work, water, non-perishable food, and more.
- Fasten your seat belt: Always wear your seat belt: it's one of the simplest but most important ways to stay safe on the road.
Balancing pleasure and studies
While enjoying your vacation, don't forget to fulfill your academic responsibilities. Schedule time for studying and classes to stay on track as the second half of the semester begins.
Stay safe, have fun and Go Big Red!
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Would you like a presentation or program on alcohol and other drugs for your RSO, chapter or group? Connect with Jon Gayer, Assistant Director for Alcohol and Drug Education, at jgayer3@unl.edu and 402-472-2583.
