Whether you‘re going to Mexico or whether you’re driving to the local beach, spring break can be an awesome time. It can also be as dangerous as hell. Every year, all sorts of bad things happen to unsuspecting spring breakers. Really bad things, like death. Or worse.

Here are some basic safety tips to make sure you party hardy and still return home in one piece:

1. Obey the law. Look, I know that spending the night in detox makes a great story for your frat buddies. It won’t make a good story for your grandkids, though. And, depending on where you’re at, you might just wind up stuck in a jail cell through your entire spring break and beyond.
2. Don’t drink too much. Alcohol poisoning is at its highest during spring break. Drink, and have a good time. Don’t get so drunk you can’t see straight, and don’t put yourself in danger of alcohol poisoning. Remember, too, that alcohol inhibits your judgment and leads to bad decisions. If you drink, do it in moderation and do it in a safe environment.
3. Don’t drink and drive. The days when drinking and driving got you a slap on the wrist are over. It’s deadly, and it’s punished severely most places.
4. Keep your hotel room safe. Lock the door when you’re inside. Look before you answer a knock at the door. Don’t open the door for a stranger. If you’re not expecting someone from the hotel, such as room service, call down to the front desk to make sure the person claiming to be staff really is. You should also not leave anything valuable inside the hotel room, such as your computer or jewelry.
5. Be smart about the sun. Watch out for exposure to the sun’s rays during the hottest times of the day. Limit the amount of time you’re in the sun. Use an SPF 15 sun block, and remember that you can still get sunburned even if it’s cloudy outside. Don’t forget to cover your ears, head, nose and shoulders, too.
6. Watch for dehydration. Alcohol tends to dehydrate you. Make sure you’re getting plenty of water during the day. Try to avoid carbonated beverages, too, because they’re not as good at hydrating you as water is.
7. Be safe in the water. Don’t go in areas where you can’t swim. Don’t drink and get into the pool. Use standard boating safety practices if you’re on a boat.
8. Remember your travel insurance. Travel insurance is relatively cheap and it will help you out if your luggage gets lost or a flight is delayed. It can also help cover expenses if there’s an accident or medical need, depending on the policy.

Photo via oskay