If you plan on drinking: Know your limits. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water; avoid over-indulging in the sun as it can dehydrate you faster; keep an eye on your friends if they’ve had too much to drink; and know who to call in case of a medical emergency.

If you’ll be in the sun, wear sunscreen (applies to mountain tops, too!): Lather on a SPF 30 or higher every two hours and limit your exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Follow this advice and you’ll be more likely to glow than bake.

Let’s talk about sex:
Don’t feel comfortable? Don’t do it. Always get consent from your partner; carry and use condoms; if someone in your group experiences a sexual assault, call 800-656-HOPE for a rape crisis service near you, or in Madison, contact the Rape Crisis Center’s 24-hour hotline: 608-251-RAPE. Before or after break, students who are interested in getting tested for sexually transmitted infections can call 608-265-5600 or make an appointment through MyUHS.

Stay with friends and be skeptical of strangers: Avoid walking alone at night and know where your friends are; be aware of your surroundings; and remember that there is a difference between making new friends and being alone with a stranger.

If you’re leaving Madison: Make sure your residence is secure: lock your doors and windows and secure valuable items such as laptops, bikes, and scooters. Let your friends and relatives know where you will be and when you expect to return; call friends or family members to let them know that you have arrived and returned safely.

If you’re traveling outside of the U.S.: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) here; respect the people, culture, and laws of the country in which you’re a guest; learn about any recommended health precautions here.

Depending on your destination, you may have to reach difficult decisions to change or even cancel plans to ensure your own well-being and timely return to Madison.

In many countries, there may be new entry and exit control measures, and even quarantines implemented with very little notice during the coming weeks. These actions could severely impact your plans and/or delay your return home with personal cost.

Because this situation is likely to continue to rapidly change in the weeks ahead, we highly encourage you to check both U.S. Department of State and Centers for Disease Control websites to find updated guidance for your destination as well as for those countries you may plan to transit.

For more information, read Chancellor Blank’s message.