Photo by: Kelsa Katzfey ’21
I think we can all agree that we’re looking forward to Spring Break– maybe even more than usual after this snowstorm. Whether you’re staying at home, escaping the cold, road tripping, or traveling to a different cold location, we’ve got safety tips to share from students who have some Spring Break experience under their belt. We’re huge fans of Spring Break but we’re even bigger fans of being prepared!
Warm weather trips
Wear sunblock to avoid a nasty burn. Especially in places that are closer to the equator because sun poisoning is real and it is dangerous. AAD.org recommends using sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 to avoid damage from the rays.
Drink lots of water and stay hydrated. I can tell you from experience that dehydration and sun poisoning are no fun whatsoever. Always have extra water on hand just in case you need it and don’t go on a day trip to the beach without it!
Wear sunglasses. Protect your eyes! Seriously guys you only have one set of eyes. Show some #respect. Don’t let the clouds fool you either, sun’s ray can still pass through them and cause damage to your eyes if you aren’t careful.
Cold weather trips
Layer up, stay warm and avoid getting frostbite. Always make sure you have gloves, a hat, a scarf, etc. to make sure you will be warm at all times when outdoors. Frostbite can set in very quickly depending on the temperature you are in so make sure all skin is covered.
If you’re staying at a place with a hot tub. Don’t drink in the hot tub – the effects of drinking are felt faster and stronger in that environment. This can cause dehydration along with other issues to your health if you aren’t careful.
Apply some sunscreen. Even though you are in a cold environment with little to no skin showing, you can still get burnt if you are outside for long periods of time. Put on a little sunscreen because better safe than sorry!
Staycation
This one isn’t really a safety tip but… get off the couch. Get a little bit of exercise and try to eat something healthy. I know it is easy to become a bum at home so get moving every once in a while.
Overall…
Stay in groups. There is safety in numbers and always make sure to utilize the buddy system especially when you’re in an unknown place.
Bring along some pepper spray. If you happen to find yourself in a dangerous situation, make sure to have some pepper spray on you in case you have to protect yourself. This is good for traveling to a new place because you never know if you might need it. Always be aware of your surroundings in general.
Watch a YouTube video. Or two just in case you are road tripping somewhere and don’t know how to change a tire or jump your car. This will come in handy for driving long distances because car problems can be scary when you are many miles form home. You’ll thank yourself now if you end up needing those skills in an area you don’t have cell service.
Make money arrangements early. Carry some emergency cash and tell your bank that you’re traveling so they don’t lock you out of your account.
Wherever your destination is for spring break, make it a safe one and make sure you are well prepared for the weather, the environment and what you might expect there. We hope you have a fun, safe and relaxing spring break week.
Originally posted by Samantha Johnson in 2019. Reviewed & updated in 2023.
