Smart celebrations can minimize the risk of police-intervention
Partying is a significant highlight of college, and it is important to have an understanding of how to party safely to keep the parties going.
Moving off campus and into an apartment or house is a big step with many responsibilities. When hosting a party, one must uphold these responsibilities or else the law will inevitably become involved.
Who you gonna call?
Here are several important numbers to have when planning a party:
>> When planning a block party, call Citizen’s Services at 303-441-3090.
>> Fraternities and sororities can call the Greek Liaison office at 303-492-0769.
>> For on-campus non-emergencies call the CU Police at 303-492-6666.
>> For off-campus non-emergencies call the Boulder Police or Fire Departments at 303-441-3333.
It is possible for a party to be kept under control. Here are some useful suggestions to help hosts keep a party fun and safe:
Inform the neighbors
By telling neighbors of party plans, there are several perks. First, they may be worth inviting to the party, which offers an opportunity to get to know the neighbors. Second, by being considerate to the neighbors and warning them about the party, they are less likely to become upset and call the police.
Door Patrol
No one likes a party crasher. Do not let guests let just anyone in, because a host is responsible for strangers as well as friends at a party. Once a party grows, it may be difficult to keep track of who is doing what. It is best to only keep people around who are friends and can be trusted.
Containment
Keep alcohol inside the venue. Hosts are responsible for alcohol leaving the premises, because it can in turn land in the wrong hands and then be tracked back to the party. Also, collect keys before the drinking begins so that drunken friends can’t slip out while you aren’t looking. Offer a spot on the couch or to pay for cab fare for those without a way home.
Find a buddy
Most parties are going to have underage guests. Since underage students cannot bring alcohol or drinks — or drink it for that matter — put them in charge of making sure no one drives home while intoxicated or drinks too much. Guests taken away to detox can really dampen the mood of a party.
Noise complaint
One of the biggest complaints on parties is the noise level. It is important to keep the level of noise down after 11:00 p.m. If it is too noisy, neighbors may call the police, who will likely break the party up.
Don’t forget the water
Since designated drivers, non-drinkers and underage guests are likely to attend, it is important to make sure not every drink is alcoholic. Make sure there are plenty of other drinks and snacks for the people who choose not to drink readily available.
Plastic is fantastic
Make sure plenty of plastic or paper cups are available for the party. That way no valuable kitchenware will be broken and cleanup will be much easier in the morning.
Free the road
Emergency vehicles must have access to all areas. It is important, especially at night, to stay well away from emergency vehicles and their access routes. Not keeping the roads clear is a criminal obstruction.
Safety matters
While worrying about what kind of drinks to buy and what to wear may seem like the biggest concern, it is important to keep safety in mind. Make sure no one tries to start a fight and no one starts playing with the matches. Both could quickly result in trouble and a visit from police.
Drinking disasters
Depending on the situation, an underage student who is caught drinking at a party is also at risk for what CU calls “two strikes,” in addition to police sanctions.
The first offense potentially results in parental notification, five hours of community service, a $125 mandatory alcohol awareness class and probation for a semester.
A second offense potentially results in another parental notification, ten hours of community service, a referral to Boulder’s Second Offender Program and suspension for one whole semester if still on probation from a first offense.
Finally, a third offense results in a parental notification and suspension for a full semester.
Even when students are obeying laws and working their hardest not to be too loud after 11:00 p.m., the police may still be called down.
Contact Campus Press Staff Writer Cameron Naish at cameron.naish@colorado.edu
