When Finals End, Celebrate Safely

There is a lot of stress that comes with final exams. When they are finally over, you want to blow off steam by throwing or attending a social event. TKE understands this, but wants to be sure both you and your guests are safe so everyone can have a good time. While most social events are fun for everyone involved, intoxicated or uninvited guests can sometimes ruin the occasion. We want you to be as protected as possible whether you are the host or the guest.

Threats to Your Good Time

• Unsolicited drugs may be dropped into your drink such as rohypnol, GHB/GLB, and ecstasy. These drugs are colorless, tasteless and odorless and are behavior altercates. They lead to a feeling of disorientation, a false intoxication where a person feels as if he/she had more to drink than he/she thinks.
   
• Drugs may be used before, after, or during your event. Drugs such as ketamine, inhalants and cocaine can alter the way your guests are behaving so be aware.
   
• TKE does not condone illegal drug activity. If you are found to be in possession, using a drug or selling narcotics, your membership in this Fraternity may be removed. (See TKE Risk Management Guidelines for more information)
   
• Be aware of the penalties campus and law enforcement authorities can and will take if you possess, use, make, and/or distribute alcohol or elicit drugs. (See TKE's Alcohol Guidelines for more information)
   
• Penalties vary, based on campus policy and on the laws that govern certain substances. Campus penalties may range from verbal or written reprimands to suspension or expulsion from the school.

Tips on How to Protect Yourself

Before the event:

• Use the buddy system: Make sure you and your guests are aware that everyone that comes together, leaves together, no matter how much the individual protests.
• Establish a signal or code word with other members of your chapter, the security, or other guests to help you out in an awkward situation.
• Personally set limits and help your friends set limits to the amount of alcohol that they will consume and make sure to stick with them.

During the social event:

• Trust your instincts! Keep an eye about your surroundings to see what is occurring around you.
• Look out for your fellow Fraters, guests as well as other friends.
• Don’t be afraid to interrupt or to make a scene.
• Hold your friend’s drink as well as encourage your guests to look after their friend’s drinks when he or she has to leave the drink.

After the social event:

• Leave together, even if you have to stay after for clean up.
• Have your keys ready when you are going to get into your car (only if you have not been drinking).
• TKE wants you to have a great time, but remember that all actions have consequences. Some are good and some are bad – be sure yours are on the good side. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to campus professionals or TKE professional staff. We are here to help you.

Adapted from policies written by the University of California, Davis "Safe Party Guide" and the UC Davis Women’s Resources and Research Center "How to Help a Friend." 

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