Planning to Celebrate? Keep Safety Top of Mind

Planning ahead can help to avoid tricky situations later. As you’re preparing to attend an event, be sure to keep the following tips at the top of mind.

• Before heading out, make a plan for safe transportation.
• Never drink or use other substances and drive.
• Arrange a designated driver, plan your bus route, or schedule a ride in advance.
• Utilize after-hours university transportation options when available.
• If using a rideshare service, review non-university rideshare safety tips beforehand.
• Stay alert, whether you’re driving or walking, as increased foot and vehicle traffic can create added risks.
• Be mindful of Michigan weather conditions and dress appropriately, especially during cold snaps.

Remember: A few minutes of planning ahead can prevent serious consequences later.

Whether you’re attending an event or hosting, thoughtful preparation makes a difference.

• Use the buddy system; there is power in numbers.
• Share your location and check in with friends throughout the event.
• Know where your friends are and leave together whenever possible.
• If hosting, review Wolverine Wellness guidance on social gatherings to create a safe and inclusive environment.

Looking out for each other is one of the strongest safety tools we have as a community.

Recognizing an emergency and acting quickly can save a life. Call 911 immediately if someone is:

• Unconscious or semi-conscious
• Pale or bluish in skin color
• Breathing slowly, irregularly, or not at all

Never assume someone will “sleep it off.” High levels of intoxication can be deadly.

If you suspect an opioid overdose:

• Stay with the individual until help arrives.
• Turn them on their side.
• Administer naloxone if available.

Cooperate with emergency responders and provide information as you feel comfortable.

Michigan’s medical amnesty law helps remove perceived barriers to calling for help. Simply put, it is designed to encourage individuals to seek emergency assistance without fear of certain legal consequences. If you see signs of alcohol poisoning or overdose, make the call. Acting quickly matters.

Below are the important steps to know regarding medical amnesty:

• Call 911 or emergency responders immediately when you see the signs of alcohol poisoning or drug overdose.
• Stay with the individual who needs assistance until help arrives.
• Help turn the person on their side and administer naloxone if you think the person might be experiencing an opioid overdose.

Cooperate with emergency responders to help the individual in need of assistance. Share information with them as you feel comfortable, and provide assistance as needed.

If you choose to drink, consider using the “Stay in the Blue” app, which helps you track your blood alcohol content (BAC) and stay at or below 0.06. Staying in the Blue means getting what you want from drinking, while avoiding the outcomes you don’t.

Technology can be a powerful tool for staying safe. At U-M, the U-M Public Safety App offers quick, convenient access to campus safety resources — all in one place.

Download the U-M Public Safety app to:

• Request after-hours transportation
• Report an incident or concern
• Access campus safety tips
• Stay informed about important updates

Beyond the app, the DPSS website provides additional guidance to help you make informed decisions. A few important resources include Alcohol & Other Drugs and the DPSS Frequently Asked Questions page. These resources contain important information, including:

• Legal drinking age reminders
• Guidance for hosting gatherings
• Open container laws
• Other university policies and safety expectations

Taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with available resources can make a meaningful difference. Knowing what to expect, and importantly, what to do if something doesn’t feel right, helps keep celebrations safe for everyone.