Our purplest week of the year is here! Warriors come from near and far to celebrate with disco fever.
WSU does not promote underage or binge drinking. However, we recognize that homecoming is a time of year that many students participate like to participate in those activities. This intent of this article is to provide educational and safety tips to keep our warrior community safe during this time of celebration.
Campus & Community Rules
WSU is a dry and tobacco free campus. There is no alcohol, marijuana, or tobacco* allowed on campus grounds even if you are of legal age.
WSU has increased sanctions during homecoming week, meaning that there will be increased consequences if you are caught not following university policies. Security will do a bag check & make you dump any open containers before entering the homecoming game.
Off-campus and community policies are still in effect, some things to note as we go into the hoco weekend:
- Open containers of alcohol are not allowed out in public including sidewalks, public streets, parking lots, alleys, or boulevards.
- NEVER drink and drive, the BAC limit is 0.08 if you are over 21 years of age.
- Remember the Zero Drop Rule—it is illegal for people under 21 to have any alcohol in their system when driving or operating a motorized vehicle, which includes the use of e-scooters.
- Don’t host a party. There are ordinances in place against hosting parties where those who are under 21 possess or consume alcohol AND for having it be too loud where you can clearly hear music or noise in public streets.
*There are designated smoking areas located around campus for tobacco use.
Don’t get a real fever so you can disco at hoco.
COVID-19 vaccines, boosters, & flu shots are available at H&WS. Call 507.457.5160 for an appointment.
If you are feeling ill, it is best to stay home and get some rest instead.
Warriors Leave No One Behind.
Use the buddy system by sticking with 2 or 3 of your friends and designate a meeting place. Make sure to check in with your friends throughout homecoming. It is up to all of us to see, say, and to do something and use our best judgement.
Safety is key.
When you are walking, don’t walk alone–especially at night. Use crosswalks, don’t run into traffic, walk on streets with lights on them; these feel like things I shouldn’t have to remind you about, but I am because safety is important! Being safe on the streets lessens the risk for injury!
Alcohol & Party Safety.
Recognize the signs for alcohol poisoning by remembering CUPS = Cold Skin, Unconscious, Puking & Slowed Breathing. If you notice someone who is exhibiting these symptoms, get them medical attention right away by calling 911.
If you help someone get to safety, you can request medical amnesty at any time during the process. This means that you will not face any consequences such as underage drinking. Medical amnesty only helps 1 underage person who is helping whomever is intoxicated and needing medical attention. Those who are of legal drinking age do not need medical amnesty.
Don’t Accept or Share Drinks.
Never share or accept drinks from others. It has always been a good rule of thumb to never accept drinks from strangers. This can also help reduce the risk of catching other illnesses such as COVID-19.
Don’t Participate in Drinking Games.
Avoid non-physically distanced alcohol activities such as drinking games. Drinking games can often lead to over consumption, which further impairs your judgement.
Keep Personal Belongings & Property Protected.
Keep IDs, cash, cards, and keys close by, and keep your living space and vehicles locked. Make sure to only invite trusted individuals into your living space and/or vehicles.
Hook-Up Safely this Homecoming.
Ask for Consent.
No means NO and yes means YES! Anything less than an enthusiastic yes–is a no. If someone is unsure, do not pressure them into sex or sexual acts. It is also important to ask every time and in between acts.
If someone is intoxicated, they are not able to consent.
Use condomsense when hooking-up.
Alcohol impairs judgement, so it may be hard to remember how important condoms are when hooking-up this hoco season. Condoms can help reduce the risk of STI’s and unexpected pregnancy.
Emergency Help.
Have a fully charged cell phone in case of an emergency.
Bring a portable charger to ensure a full night with a full battery. This will also help ensure that you can call for a safe ride. The WSU shuttles run nightly until 12AM or take a Lyft. Remember to never drink & drive or get in a car with someone who has been drinking.
Emergency Numbers
In an emergency, call 911!
Campus Security 507.457.5555
Advocacy Center of Winona 24/7 Helpline 507.452.4453
Health & Wellness Services 507.457.5160
We are all Warriors let’s remember to stay safe, stay smart and celebrate with disco fever.
