Be safe.

Ames Cmdr. Mike Brennan said that when you go out, it’s important not to do so alone.

“Obviously, the number one rule is to use to buddy system,” he said. “It’s always a good idea to go out with one or two people.”

Lt. Elliott Florer of ISU Police said going out with people is one of the easiest ways to stay safe.

“If you go to a party with a group a people, always leave that party with the same group of people that you went there with,” he said.

It’s also a good idea to carry your cell phone, Brennan said.

And even if you’re not drinking, just walking around at night or even earlier in the evening, Brennan said, it is a good idea to be aware of the fact many people who are out have been. The more respectful you are of other people, the less likely it is for something to happen.

“You have to realize that there is a wide variety of people out there at night, and that some have been drinking and some have been drinking way too much,” he said.

Florer said it is important to be aware of your surroundings, and even if you’re listening to an iPod, keep one ear phone out so you can pay attention to what’s going on around you.

Common sense precautions and listening to your gut is also important, Florer said.

“If your gut tells you something’s wrong, something probably is wrong, and don’t be afraid to listen to that voice,” he said.

Another good precaution to take is to let your roommates know what your plans are, Brennan said. This way, someone will know where you are supposed to be, and about what time you should be back home.

Florer said it’s important to let people you know what your plans are, so if you don’t come home when you are supposed to, people can take action to find out what is wrong.

When it comes to drinking, Brennan said to do so responsibly and have a designated driver.

Since one of the first things to be affected by alcohol is your judgment, people drinking can make some decisions that could get them into to trouble. Fights and disagreements the department usually has to deal with at bars or parities involve people who have been drinking.

“You certainly should know your limit,” he said.

Florer said the biggest problem his department faces has to do with “people’s decisions and usage of alcohol.”

He recommends if you do choose to drink, to do so responsibly.

Florer also said the Safety Escort is very underused on campus. It is available 6 p.m – 6 a.m. The number is 515-294-4444 and will take you anywhere on campus, to the fraternities and sororities and athletic complexes.

“Life is a precious thing, it’s important to keep safe and make good decisions,” Florer said.