Little 500 weekend at Indiana University signals the beginning of the end -- typically a time to enjoy warming temperatures and to blow off steam before finals and the end of spring semester.
Many IUPD-Bloomington officers also are IU alums and appreciate the tradition -- but also encourage Hoosiers to look after each other this weekend, and their out-of-town friends. You want the weekend to be memorable for the right reasons.
Consider these tips:
- Don't ditch your friends. Sticking together throughout the night helps keep everyone safer and can keep you from having to find your way home by yourself.
- Keep an eye on your out-of-town-friends. Most "visitors" to Sunday court are not IU students and often traveled here for the weekend. Show your out-of-town friends a good time but remind them there are consequences for excessive or under-age drinking.
- Traffic may be crazy. When driving or crossing the street, keep in mind that traffic will be more congested and include many people who aren't familiar with Bloomington's streets.
- Be mindful of your surroundings. Talking on your phone or listening to music while you walk could distract you from threats.
- Look for exit signs. Know how to get out of a building in case of a fire or other emergency.
- Get a ride. Don’t walk alone at night, especially in dimly lit areas.
- Keep your phone charged. Small portable chargers can also double as flashlights.
- Know your drinking limits. Don’t become so impaired that you can’t understand what’s going on around you or that you misinterpret someone else’s actions.
- Always watch your drink. Don’t give anyone the chance to put anything in it.
- Hang out with people you trust. Associate with people who look out for each other and who make sure their friends get home safely.
Here is a link to IU Late Nite activities.
Our intern Wendi Cai discusses why Little 500 is more than a bike race.
Test your social savvy
Q: Which of the following statements are true?
- Many of the dangers you face come from interactions with people you know, not strangers.
- Alcohol or drugs significantly increase the likelihood that you’ll be a victim of a personal crime.
- “No” means “no.”
- Being too impaired to say “no” means “no.”
A: All of them.