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(Hackensack, NJ) March 10, 2010 – With mid-terms past and the first hint of spring in the air, many college students are gearing up for trips to warm locales to celebrate spring break. However, as recent headlines have made clear, it's important that they be prepared for potentially dangerous situations that can occur, even in a seemingly safe, sun-filled resort. "Everyone has heard about what sometimes happens when students are drinking and things get out of hand," says Ellen Elias Rocca, director of The Center for Alcohol and Drug Resources and vice president for addiction services at Children's Aid and Family Services. "There can be bad outcomes, legal problems and health issues. We want young adults to make informed choices, plan ahead, have a great time and know how to handle a potentially dangerous situation so they stay safe."
Some essential tips for a safe spring break include:
At the hotel – Be sure to reserve a room between the first and sixth floors. Many people view students on spring break as easy targets for theft. Having a room on the first floor provides easy access to thieves. A room higher than the sixth floor can be dangerous because it is sometimes too high for fire ladders to reach. Always keep your hotel room door locked and don't leave money or valuables around your room. If your cell phone or credit cards are stolen, report this immediately to the companies so they can cancel your services.
Going Out – Be sure to have at least one friend with you whenever you go out. Use the buddy system: whoever you go out with, return home with. Be on the lookout for predatory drugs. Watch your drink and don't ever let someone else handle your drink or accept a drink from a stranger. Carry your emergency information with you at all times (name, phone number, medical allergies, emergency contact, etc.).
Alcohol Safety – Binge drinking tends to be a big part of the spring break experiences for many students and it almost always leads to trouble. It makes you a target for both thieves and sexual predators. The safest approach is to not binge drink and know your limit with alcohol. Be sure to know the signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning and never hesitate to call for emergency help if one of your friends is showing the symptoms. If you're traveling abroad, be aware of all the local laws and regulations regarding alcohol. Also, don't drink and drive. Be sure to arrange for a safe mode of transportation before you go out (e.g., have the number of a taxi service with you).
On the beach – Alcohol can intensify the effects of the sun, so be sure to keep hydrated and drink plenty of water. If you feel lightheaded or faint, seek shade and water immediately. Don't swim if you've been drinking alcohol.
"We all want our teens to enjoy themselves on spring break," says Ms. Elias Rocca. "It's important for them to be aware of their surroundings and their decisions so they can keep themselves and their friends safe. I urge all parents to share these tips with their teens and to talk to them about the positive things they can do to make their spring break a wonderful and memorable experience."
The Center for Alcohol and Drug Resources, a program of Children's Aid and Family Services, provides community and school-based education programs about alcohol and drug abuse and advocates for responsive prevention and treatment services. The Center's offices are located in Hackensack and its services are available throughout Bergen County.
Children's Aid and Family Services is one of the largest nonprofit human services organizations serving northern New Jersey. The agency is fully accredited and has served the community for more than 110 years. Its mission is to preserve, protect, and when needed, provide families. Motivated by compassion for vulnerable children, young adults, frail elderly and their families, it provides high-quality and innovative services that meet their social, educational and emotional needs.
For more information on Children's Aid and Family Services, call 201.261.2800 or visit www.cafsnj.org. | 
