To the UO community,
Spring is officially here! Now that we’re finally emerging from the grey, campus is buzzing with energy and we’re all looking for ways to make the most of the spring weather. There are so many opportunities this time of year to reconnect with community and find some joy, and I hope each of you takes advantage of this exciting season!
That being said, I want to remind you that we need to balance that excitement for gathering with an eye for safety for ourselves, our fellow Ducks, and the wider community.
We know that despite the risks, some students will choose to engage with alcohol and/or other drugs this spring. We want to provide some tips and reminders so that students can make informed decisions and engage with substances with greater safety. Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that the legal drinking and cannabis use age is 21 and it is illegal to provide these substances to minors. These laws are always enforced in the state of Oregon and will be strictly enforced this spring.
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Smart Tips for a Safe and Fun Spring |
Choose Your Own Experience
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Decide which events and environments align with your personal definition of fun; alcohol and other substances are not the only way to have a good time.
- Decide on limits for drinking, the duration you will be out, and the frequency of partying.
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Take an anonymous screener to keep your substance use in check. Learn more about your alcohol use, cannabis use, or drug use.
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Plan to Party Without Regrets
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- Eat a substantial meal and stay hydrated before and during the event.
- Space your drinks (aim for no more than one drink per hour) and avoid drinking games.
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Master telling others, “I’m good, thanks,” and duck out. Prepare exit strategies and polite excuses to leave a situation if it becomes unsafe or uncomfortable.
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Always keep your drink with you and do not accept beverages from strangers. Pour your own drinks if possible.
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Go out with a group of trusted friends and agree on a plan to stick together throughout the event.
- Share your location with each other using an app if possible.
- Ducks take care of Ducks. It is up to all of us to prevent sexual violence or other harmful situations. When you hear something, say something. When you see something, do something. If it is not safe for you to intervene, call for help.
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Arrange reliable transportation—whether it is a designated driver, rideshare, or a campus-provided service like Duck Rides—before the party starts. The UO Uber Program is also back for spring 2026! Always confirm rideshare drivers before entering a vehicle.
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- Oregon’s Medical Amnesty law allows you to call 9-1-1 or other emergency services to receive medical help for yourself or others without risking a Minor in Possession (MIP) charge.
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If you or a friend show signs of alcohol poisoning—like shallow breathing, unresponsiveness, cold or clammy skin, pale or bluish color, vomiting, or confusion—call for help right away. For more information, please visit Prevention Services’ Alcohol and Other Drugs FAQ.
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If you engage in or may be around substance use, please pick up a Narcan kit from the Narcan mount located near the O Desk in the EMU. You never know when you will need to help a friend.
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Have Essential Items with You
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Carry your ID, phone, keys, and some cash securely on you at all times. Do not forget sunscreen. Ensure your device is fully charged and accessible at all times, with emergency contacts pre-saved.
- Hosting a party? Find tips to party safe on the Substance Abuse Prevention Education website.
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Additional Note About Spring Game |
If you are planning to attend the Oregon Football Spring Game, remember that alcohol cannot be brought into Autzen Stadium. The clear bag policy will be strictly enforced. Recent Spring Games have resulted in a lot of trash from the bike bridge all the way to the stadium; please remember to dispose of trash properly.
Wishing all of you a safe and fun spring,
Jimmy Howard, PhD
Associate Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students
University of Oregon
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Office of the Dean of Students
185 Oregon Hall, 1585 E. 13th Ave., Eugene, OR | 541-346-3216
The University of Oregon is an equal-opportunity institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
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6203 University of Oregon | Eugene, OR 97403 US
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