Spring break is just around the corner, but do you have a safety plan in place?

You made through one half of your school year and you most certainly deserve a break from all of it. Good thing spring break is just around the corner! Whether you are going on vacation with your family or just hanging out at the beach with friends, it's good to have a safety plan in place during spring break.

Here are a few things you should keep in mind when planning your trip:

• Make sure you pick a hotel that is centrally located. You don't want to be stuck out in the middle of nowhere.
• Stay in touch with family and/or friends — whether by email, social media or phone. Make sure that you are staying in contact and letting them know you are safe. This is especially important if you go without your parents.
• Don't carry a ton of cash with you; take a little and use mostly credit cards. You are less likely to be robbed.
• When you go out, don't go out by yourself. Make sure you have people with you.
• Make sure you use sunscreen and drink plenty of water when you are out in the sun.
• If you are old enough to drink, make sure go easy on the alcohol and make sure you designate a driver or have the number to a cab service handy.

So now that you have your safety plan in place, all you have left to do is to pick your destination! Where ever you decide to go, make sure to follow the safety tips above. Find more spring break safety tips by visiting the CDC website. Be safe and have fun!

If you would like to learn more about LiveFree! and our mission to reduce youth substance abuse, visit our website. And if you want to join our mailing list, just text LIVEFREE to 22828, and don't forget to include your email address!

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You’re invited … to a party! Parties are a time for socializing, games, and fun. However, some people like to ruin the carefree atmosphere with drugs and alcohol. Many teenagers are curious about the altering effects of drugs and alcohol. They may want to fit in with a crowd or seem cool.

The problem with using drugs or drinking alcohol is the loss of control and the risk for dependence. When you drink or do drugs, you are no longer yourself. You can’t truly experience and enjoy anything while under the influence. Don’t live behind a hazy cloud. Be yourself and really enjoy a party. Here are some ways you can have fun and throw a great party above the influence.

• Choose a theme. Dress in costumes, styles from a particular era, or just more formally than usual. The potential for fun starts in the wardrobe planning. You can hold a contest for best outfit or even a fashion show. Having something fun to focus on will give everyone something in common to talk about. No need for drugs or alcohol to take the runway.

• Provide a great spread of food. There’s nothing better than a good meal with good friends. Plan a menu with exotic and comfort foods, go pot luck, or splurge for a fancy caterer. Make the meal the central focus of the party.

• Some people like the idea of drinking because of the interesting concoctions and mixtures that can be made and garnished with a little umbrella. Go fun and healthy with smoothies or other frozen drinks that don’t need alcohol to perk them up.

• Plan some games to amp up the fun. Interactive video games let you have a tennis or bowling tournament in your living room. Want to gamble, but not with your health and safety? Set up a poker game with the losers having to clean up. You’ll need all your wits and focus to win. Don’t “deal in” drugs and alcohol.

• Hook up your iPod and blast the latest tunes. Get everyone on the dance floor. Once you start moving to the beat, you’ll get that natural high. Drugs and alcohol don’t come close to your own natural happiness. Afraid you don’t have the moves? Start the party with some simple lessons to put everyone at ease.

• Search online for other fun party games that don’t require drinking. Try card games, sports or outdoor games, swimming and pool games, even games that let you swap secrets and dares.

Being a teenager doesn’t last long. Make real memories with your friends that will last. When you’re older looking back, it won’t be much fun to say, “Remember that big summer party…” “No, I don’t remember it because I was drinking and doing drugs.” Make every party one to remember. Be a leader and party without drugs or alcohol. LiveFree can help you get involved.

Sources:
101 Ways to Party Without Drinking
How to Enjoy Yourself at a Party Without Drinking

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