Skip to main content
Link to news home page
News

Mifflin Street Block Party and student safety

April 26, 2006 By John Lucas

The City of Madison is preparing for a safe and enjoyable Mifflin Street Block Party on Saturday, April 29. However, the combination of large crowds, balconies and alcohol make it particularly important for students to be aware of their own safety and the safety of others.

Susan Crowley of the PACE Project is available to talk about issues related to student safety. She can be reached at (608) 262-9007. Among the tips to stay safe on Saturday:

  • If you plan to go out, go out with other people that you know and trust. Have a buddy who will watch out for you. Check in with each other throughout the day. If you get separated, pick a meeting spot outside the busy areas to reconnect. It is always a good idea to only go into a house if you have your friends with you.
  • Be careful on balconies and porches. If you have a sense that a porch is overcrowded, move back into the house and urge other people to do so as well. Use extreme care near the ledges, as falls do happen, often resulting in serious injury.
  • If you don’t feel like going out in the crowds of Mifflin Street, numerous other parties and events will take place around campus. For more information, visit the All-Campus Party Web site at http://www.allcampusparty.com
  • Know your limits. If you choose to drink, pace yourself, drink lots of water, take breaks or stop drinking entirely.
  • If you accept a beverage from someone, make sure that you know the person, you’ve observed the drink’s preparation and that you never leave it unattended. Exercise caution in any public setting with any beverage.
  • No glass will be allowed on Mifflin Street. Remember to wear closed-toed shoes instead of sandals or flip-flops in case there is broken glass on the street.
  • Don’t drink and drive. There are a variety of transportation services, including the campus bus (Safe Bus), the SafeWalk/SafeRide at 262-5000, and the local taxi services.
  • Police will be stationed throughout the Mifflin Street area. If you observe suspicious or criminal behavior or need immediate assistance, find an officer or call 911; 911 calls from any pay phone are free.