Schoolies. It’s a little word for a big week. It’s the holiday Year 12s all over Australia have been waiting for. But above all, it’s the chance to celebrate the end of school…finally. Hold up. Before you race out there, make sure you’re prepared. Not knowing the risks or what to do in an emergency can turn things ugly, fast.

Wherever you’re planning on spending schoolies, it’s always good to have a plan. Around alcohol people can change and the risks are high.

So here are a few tips for a fun, safe Schoolies Week:

• Let your parents know where you’re staying and who you’re going with.
• Keep in contact with your parents throughout the week – so they know you’re safe (they’re less likely to hassle you then too)
• Register as a school leaver with the local council (or schoolies organisation) in the area you’re visiting.
• Always have your phone on you (and charged!)
• Put your ‘in case of emergency number’ (ICE) in your phone.
• In an emergency call 000.
• Keep money aside for emergencies.
• Eat before you drink – preferably carbohydrate-rich food such as rice, bread, pasta, pizza etc. It’ll help slow the rate your body absorbs alcohol.
• Be extra cautious with drinks. Avoid drinks with high alcohol content and beware of drink spiking – don’t let your drink out of your sight.
• Pace your alcohol intake and hydrate with non-alcoholic drinks like water.
• Stay with friends and keep an eye out for one another.
• Don’t drink drive or get into a car with anyone who’s been drinking.
• Avoid risky situations such as swimming after drinking or getting into arguments and fights.