Spring Break is notorious as an occasion when student vacationers lose their inhibitions and engage in high-risk behaviors, according to an LSUPD official.
Alcohol and debauchery are associated with Spring Break, said LSUPD Major Mark Shaw.
“In most jurisdictions, the legal drinking age is 21,” Shaw said. “That means that the majority of students at LSU legally cannot drink on Spring Break.”
Tourists often are unaware of drinking laws in unfamiliar locations.
“Especially if you go out of the country, laws can be really different,” said Kimia Maleki, a sociology freshman. “I would suggest asking a travel agent about the drinking age and laws regarding alcohol use.”
Students who drink should do so responsibly, Shaw said.
“Drinking to intoxication could cause anything from overexposure to the sun, a health issue, to finding yourself in an unsafe intimate situation, a safety issue,” Shaw said.
Students agree that alcohol can put vacationers in unsafe situations.
“In Destin last year, a [friend] who had been drinking too much fell asleep on our balcony in the sun,” said Alex Marshall, a construction management junior. “He woke up a few hours later with such bad sunburns that he stayed inside the rest of the week. You have to know your limits.”
Shaw suggests that students know where local hospitals and police departments are located in relation to where they are staying.
“Have you ever heard the Jimmy Buffet song that goes ‘Step on a pop-top, cut your flip-flop?,'” Shaw asked. “Alcohol can cause a number of situations that could require medical or police attention. Knowing the area where you will be staying and planning ahead are always smart things to do.”
Tourists also can be at risk of becoming victims of crime.
“In high school, we went to Mexico and pick-pocketers were everywhere,” Maleki said. “Criminals watch for tourists on purpose because they make easy targets. My hotel gave warning not to carry a wallet in your back pocket, or a purse that is open or unzips easily.”
Shaw gave similar warnings.
“Do not carry too much cash on you,” Shaw warned. “Try to use credit cards and traveler’s checks as much as possible. Be aware of crime trends that occur in the place where you are going. Do not be an obvious sign of affluence by wearing lots of jewelry. If you are approached by a robber, give up valuables because they can be replaced.”
Students should practice safe behaviors en route to Spring Break destinations as well.
“Travel in groups, particularly females,” Shaw said. “Before departing, have your vehicle inspected to make sure it is in good condition. Plan to stop every four to five hours and always have at least two people awake at all times. Passengers should not do anything that would distract the driver.”
Shaw offered a general message for all students.
“Be responsible, be safe and have a good time, but make good choices,” Shaw said.