With spring break right around the corner, I know many of us have big plans. Some are headed to Ft Lauderdale, some headed to Daytona, some to spend time with family, and even some are headed out of the country. With that being said, we'll all have fun trips and getaways with some of our favorite people, but we need to make sure we're being safe too because anything can happen.
1. Stay with your group
I cannot stress this enough. Whoever you come with. Stay. With. Them. Anyone else in that area is a stranger. No matter how much you want to, you can't trust them. On a busy beach, in a crowded bar, or even a packed hotel pool, staying with your group is the best thing you can do. You don't want to turn around and realize you've lost them, and they have your stuff or you don't know your way back to where you're staying.
2. Pack sunscreen
Kind of stereotypical. But sun poisoning is real. I promise you can still get a killer tan if you wear it. It doesn't stop the sun completely, just protects your skin!
3. Bring lots of water
Most of you will spend a lot of your day out on the beach. Majority of those of you will be out not only on the beach but also consuming alcohol. Which means you're going to dehydrate, and fast. Sure, it'll be fun to get "lit" with your friends but it won't be fun when one of you passes out because you weren't careful about what you drink.
4. Watch your drinks
Going off of drinking. You should always, I mean ALWAYS, watch your drinks. One of the scariest things to hear about is people being roofied. It's terrifying. Make sure you know where your drink is coming from, and make sure you do not let it our of your sight.
5. Protect your stuff
You'll probably carry your wallet, phone, keys, etc, with you. But how do you carry all of that without it being stolen? I would truthfully suggest a fanny pack.
6. Consider using a code word with your friends
This could be useful in the event that you're uncomfortable. You can easily turn to your friends and use your code word and they can help you out of the situation. It's all apart of the buddy system.
7. Do your research
Yeah, it's fun to book all of these fun places and activities. But you should look at reviews first. You should look into if it's legit or not. How safe the area is. These are all important, in order to get your money's worth and be safe.
8. Keep your guard up in the ocean
If you end up swimming, be careful of the current. One minute, you're looking at your best friends. You look away for a few maybe swim around a little bit, you look up and nothing looks familiar. You're carried down the shore or even into the sea. Just make sure you stay kind of close to the shore and be aware of what's around you.
9. Plan your day ahead
Before leaving your hotel, your group and you should plan your day. Where you're headed, when you'll go to eat, and when you'll head in for the night. This way if for some reason if you do get lost, you know where everyone will be and when.
10. Have Fun!!
With all of this being said, I'm sure it was a lot, but seriously — have fun. It's a week away with some of your best friends, from all of the stress that builds up in college. Being safe will ensure that you have a good time. You'll appreciate it, your parents will, and your loved ones.
