Safety Tips: Spring Break

With Spring break coming up for New Mexico State University March 7-11, faculty, staff and students may be making travel plans. Here are some tips to keep in mind to ensure you and your friends or family stay safe during your vacation.

• Since the COVID-19 virus is still active, it’s important to understand the health restrictions that will apply at your destination and to follow the Centers for Disease Control guidelines:
• The CDC recommends making sure you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before travel, which includes additional doses for individuals who are immunocompromised or booster doses when eligible.
• Follow all requirements and recommendations at each location during travel, including wearing a well-fitting mask and following recommendations for protecting yourself and others.
• If you are traveling internationally, check the COVID-19 Travel Health Notice for your destination and visit the International Travel webpage for requirements and recommendations.

• Additional safety tips while traveling:
  • Don’t share too much on social media – be cautious about sharing personal information on status updates and tweets, check privacy settings.
  • Keep your ID on you at all times – store in inside pocket. Keep a copy of your driver’s license/passport in case it is stolen.
  • Stay safe at your hotel – Avoid first floor hotel rooms, lock doors and windows, secure important belongings in the safe.
  • Know your hotel address - take a hotel business card with you when going out in case you need to give a cab driver your address. Never tell new acquaintances your hotel or room number.
  • Don’t travel alone – Use the buddy system at all times, don’t go anywhere with strangers.
  • Carry cash and important phone numbers – Keep copies of credit cards in case they are stolen.
  • Practice safe driving – Rotate drivers often and take turns being a designated driver, make sure your car is road worthy before setting out.
  • Practice safe drinking – Watch your cup or glass. Only drink what has been poured in front of you.
  • Use a code word or signal with friends – To let them know when you need them to intervene.
  • Carry a small, practical, and easy to use personal protection tool– For example: pepper spray or a personal alarm.
  • Consider travel insurance –– You may need medical coverage, emergency evacuation or other travel assistance.

For more travel tips, visit the CDC’s spring break travel page.