10TV: Spring Break Safety

With spring break season in full swing, there are plenty of concerned parents of teens and college students traveling in groups to out of state locations.

One of the major concerns focuses on alcohol consumption.

A study by the US Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found 44 percent of women, and 75 percent of men, reported getting drunk every day on Spring Break. Half of them say they binge drink until they pass out.

"What's important for the community to know about alcohol consumption and violence is that perpetrators target vulnerability," said Susan Wismar, Prevention Coordinator for the OhioHealth Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio. "For so long, we've tried to end violence by saying if you're a vulnerable person, be less vulnerable," Wismar told 10TV.

What is being talked about now, especially in those working on prevention and education is bystander intervention.

Wismar tells 10TV, keeping an eye out for not only those in your group, but also those you see that might not be in your group, but those that appear to need help.

"It is every one of your jobs to take care of each other, and make sure everybody is safe," said Wismar.

Experts suggest parents having important conversations with groups of teens or college students before they head off for spring break.

But once these students get to their location, for them to really band together to keep everyone safe in their group, and to have consistent check-in's with each other as the week goes on.

SARNCO has a 24-hour line available for anyone who needs a place to turn.

SARNCO’s mission is to empower all survivors and end sexual violence. The vision is to live in a world without oppression, where all people are safe to live authentic, freely chosen lives and to pursue their full potential.

The 24-Hour Rape Helpline is (614) 267.7020 or via the Rape Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) at 1 (800) 656-HOPE.

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