This message to all students is approved by Dr. Amy Hecht, Vice President for Student Affairs.
As we approach the end of in-person instruction and look forward to the upcoming break, many of you may be making plans to leave for a short period of time or even for the remainder of the year. The Division of Student Affairs, Florida State University Police Department, and University Health Services would like to take this opportunity to provide tips on how to stay healthy while away, secure your belongings in Tallahassee, and celebrate the holidays responsibly.
Stay Healthy:
- Wear a face covering
- Avoid larger group gatherings
- Practice social distancing
- Practice good hygiene
- Get your flu shot
Secure Your Belongings:
- Be sure you have serial numbers for your personal property, and if possible, register your property through property registration via the SeminoleSAFE mobile app.
- Take pictures of your items of value. If possible, take as many items of value with you when you leave.
- If your vehicle is going to be unattended for an extended amount of time, try to leave it a well-lit area and make sure it’s secured and remove all items of value from the vehicle.
- If you live in student housing with a shared residence, be sure to secure the adjoining doors and secure all items of value that will remain in the room.
- Make sure bicycles are properly secured with a (recommended) U-Bolt style lock. If possible, register your bike with the FSUPD.
- Taking pictures of the interior of your residence prior to leaving is a good idea. It will assist with identifying if your property has been moved or isn’t the way you left it.
- Having alternating lights in your residence or music playing while you’re away creates the illusion that someone is home. It can also work as a deterrent to you becoming a victim.
- If applicable, be sure your windows are secured.
- If you have a mailbox at your residence, be sure to empty it while you’re away or make arrangements to have a friend or family member collect your mail. Contacting the postal service and stopping your mail is a good option. An overflowing mailbox indicates an unoccupied residence.
- If you don’t have a security system, consider getting one. Getting a professionally monitored system can help with Law Enforcement response time and identification of suspects.
- Don’t broadcast your travel plans online.
- Remember if your property is secured and out of sight it’s less likely you will become a victim.
Celebrate the Holidays Responsibly:
- Make responsible choices. Know it is illegal to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol if you are under the age of 21. If you choose to legally drink alcohol, utilize the protective strategies below to reduce your risk:
- Limit yourself to no more than one drink per hour and make sure to eat before you drink.
- Designate a sober driver or identify a ride-sharing or transportation service to ensure you do not drive under the influence of alcohol.
- Watch who makes your drink and always keep your drink in your possession.
- Set a limit on how many drinks you are going to have and stick to it.
- Know the signs of alcohol poisoning and do not hesitate to call for medical assistance if needed.
- Avoid people or situations that make you feel pressured to drink and do not pressure others to drink.
We hope everyone has a safe rest of the semester and winter break, and remember if you “If you see something, say something.” Stay safe!