Build a return plan that does not depend on one person

Safety planning can reduce uncertainty; it never transfers responsibility for harassment, assault or violence away from the person causing it.

  • Primary routeConfirm the campus shuttle, transit, designated driver, walking route or paid ride before leaving.
  • Backup routeKeep enough battery, access and money for an option that does not require the host or date.
  • Check-in personShare the general plan with someone who will notice a missed check-in and knows what action you want.
  • Exit phraseUse a simple message or code that means call, come meet me or contact help.
  • Address and policyKnow the location, campus jurisdiction and emergency route instead of relying on a social post.

Choose the response that matches the problem

Do not let social awkwardness downgrade a safety concern.

  • Plan changedUpdate the check-in and transport route before moving to another location.
  • Boundary ignoredLeave, contact support and prioritize distance; consent can be withdrawn at any time.
  • Friend impairedDo not leave them alone or assign care to another impaired person; use sober help.
  • Possible overdoseCall 911 immediately for inability to wake, seizures, vomiting with reduced consciousness, slow or irregular breathing, or other overdose signs.

Keep choice visible during the night

A good plan allows every person to change their mind.

  • Can I leave independently?Keep your phone, keys, identification and transport access under your control.
  • Is the next location known?Do not follow a moving group without updating where you are going.
  • Are substances interacting?Alcohol mixed with opioids, sedatives or some medicines can sharply increase overdose risk.
  • Is someone able to consent?Do not treat silence, pressure, sleep or severe impairment as agreement.
  • Who is sober enough to act?Identify a sober person or call professional help rather than trying to manage an emergency alone.

Act first in an alcohol emergency

NIAAA advises calling 911 when alcohol overdose is suspected and not waiting for every sign. Coffee, walking and a cold shower do not reverse an overdose, and an unconscious person should never be left to sleep it off.

After any threatening, unwanted or nonconsensual experience, the student may want medical care, a confidential advocate, campus support or law enforcement. The choice of route belongs to the affected person unless immediate safety requires emergency action.