Five Alcohol Safety Tips

For many college students heading back to school means new roommates, classes, fall sports, all-nighters, hanging out with friends, and parties. While most of these activities might seem harmless, fun, and even expected of a college student, excessive alcohol use can pose many safety risks, especially for women.

We know you're excited to see your friends, blow off some steam and have a good time. But we also know that going out without a plan can turn what was meant to be a fun evening into a nightmare.

Did you know that…

At least 50% of student sexual assaults involve alcohol.
Approximately 90% of rapes perpetrated by an acquaintance involve alcohol.
About 43% of sexual assault events involve alcohol use by the victim; 69% involve alcohol use by the perpetrator. 1

At Collage, we care about you and want to provide you with helpful information about alcohol consumption and its risks to your sexual and emotional health. So, here are five safety tips that can help keep you and your friends out of risky situations that involve alcohol and sex.

1. Avoid Excessive Alcohol.

Low-risk drinking is thinking about your limit before getting to the party. Limiting alcoholic beverages to one drink per hour is recommended, a maximum of three for gals and four for guys for the entire evening. Alternating drinking with food and water is also a good option.

High-risk drinking can lead to excessive alcohol consumption. Common high-risk drinking activities are drinking games, chugging, doing shots, and mixing drinks with drugs or energy drinks. 2

2. Have a Group.

Ever heard of the old saying, 'there's safety in numbers?' Going to a party with a group of friends to act as lookouts for each other is a great idea! A way to keep safe within your group is to have a code word that will help tip off your friends if you feel like you are in an unsafe situation. Then, if anyone says or texts the code word, try to help get that friend out of the problem.

3. Choose Safe Areas.

The safest option at a party is to stay with your group at all times. Avoid isolation or putting yourself in situations where you can't be heard or seen. If you do need to leave your group, take a friend with you and make sure that you communicate with your group about where you're going and when you think you'll be back.

4. Be Protective of your Drink.

If you choose to drink at a party, keep it with you at all times. Never allow someone to refill your glass or get you a new drink. It's too easy to have something slipped into your drink when you're not looking. 56% of women and 44% of men said they've unknowingly had their drinks spiked. Out of this surveyed group, 52% said they had their first drink spiked during college. 3

If you did leave your drink unattended or accepted a drink from somebody else, pay attention to your body for the effects of a possible spike. Some signs of having your drink mixed with a drug can include extreme drowsiness, compromised cognitive/physical abilities, nausea, difficulty concentrating, and blurred vision.

5. Trust Your Instincts.

If you feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or worried for any reason while on a date or at a party, don't ignore those feelings. Get somewhere safe and find someone you trust. Sometimes acting on intuition can feel awkward, embarrassing, and even stupid. Never let those feelings stop you from seeking safety. You and your safety are more important than anyone's embarrassment or inconvenience.

If you need help…

If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve been sexually assaulted, contact Campus Police or the Local Police immediately.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, Family Advocacy Network is a great resource in Kearney as is Willow Rising in Grand Island. If you think you may be pregnant and you want someone to talk to, please contact us. We want to be there for you.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

How Will Abortion Affect Me Mentally?

September 24, 2025

When considering abortion, it’s natural to wonder how the decision could affect your mental health. While every woman’s experience is different, being aware of possible emotional impacts and taking time to reflect on your circumstances can help you make an informed choice. At Collage, we provide free, confidential support so you don’t have to navigate these questions alone. Our staff is here to listen, answer your questions, and connect you with the resources you need as you process your options. Contact us to schedule your appointment today. What Research Suggests Research has shown that abortion can lead to a range of emotional responses. The American Psychological Association notes that some women experience grief, sadness, or even clinically significant issues like depression and anxiety afterward. Certain factors may make these outcomes more likely, such as: A history of mental health challenges Pressure from others to make a decision Lack of support or secrecy about the pregnancy Strong personal, cultural, or spiritual beliefs Wanting to continue the pregnancy but feeling unable to Recognizing how these factors may apply to your situation can help you prepare and seek support. You Have Other Options You are the one who will live with this decision, so it’s important not to rush. Confirming your pregnancy with a lab- quality test and ultrasound can provide clarity and help you understand your options, which include parenting and adoption. Speaking with a counselor or a healthcare professional can also give you space to process your feelings without judgment. We’re Here for You At Collage, we offer free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and confidential consultations so you can explore your options with accurate information and compassionate support. Schedule your free appointment today. You deserve the time, space, and care to make a confident decision with your mental health top of mind. Collage does not provide or refer for abortions; however, we do provide pre-abortion screenings.

Am I Eligible for the Abortion Pill?

August 11, 2025

Wondering if the abortion pill is right for you? Learn about eligibility, risks, and why an ultrasound is your first step at Collage.

What Are My Second-Trimester Pregnancy Options?

July 2, 2025

If you’re in your second trimester (between 13 and 26 weeks of pregnancy), you might be asking, What now? Maybe you just found out you’re pregnant, or maybe this stage of pregnancy is bringing new questions or emotions. No matter where you are in your journey, Collage is here to offer support, information, and a safe place to talk through your options. Understanding Abortion Laws in Nebraska In Nebraska, abortion is not permitted after 12 weeks gestation, with limited exceptions. If you’re considering abortion and believe you may be near or past this point, it’s important to have an ultrasound to confirm how far along you are. If you’re unsure how far along you are, Collage offers no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to provide the medical information you need to understand your next steps. Exploring Your Other Pregnancy Options If abortion is not an option or you’re unsure what’s next, you still have choices. We can talk with you more about each of them. Parenting Parenting might feel like something you’re not ready for or even impossible right now. But with the right support, it may be more achievable than you think. You don’t have to have all the answers today. At Collage, we can connect you with local resources, parenting classes, and support systems that can help you prepare, step by step. You won’t be alone. Adoption If parenting doesn’t seem like the right fit for your current season, adoption is another option that gives you the ability to make a thoughtful plan for your child. Today’s adoption process puts you in control of key decisions, including: Choosing the adoptive family Deciding how much (if any) communication you’d like to have Creating a plan that reflects your goals and values We offer adoption referrals and a confidential space to explore what this might look like for you—no pressure, just information and support. You’re Not Alone Navigating pregnancy in the second trimester can feel heavy, but you don’t have to walk through it by yourself. At Collage, you’ll find compassionate care, medical services, and honest answers to your questions. Schedule your no-cost appointment today. We’re here to listen and support through this process.