A staff member giving a presentation to a large group of student athletes

Protective Behaviors

What are Protective Behaviors?

Protective behaviors are harm-reduction techniques that students can use to increase everyones' safety. Here are some practical and proactive action steps that will empower Jayhawks in their decision-making.  

Before going out for an event:

  • Make sure your cell phone is charged.
  • Identify someone who can be your buddy for the duration of the event. 
  • Plan how you will return home safely after the event. (ex. SafeRide, a sober designated driver, or a rideshare service)

While out for the event:

  • Alternate non-alcoholic beverages with alcoholic beverages. 
  • Check-in with your buddy regularly.
  • Do not exceed more than 4 drinks for the duration of the event.
  • Always eat food before drinking alcohol. 
  • Have your buddy let you know when you have had enough to drink.
  • Pace your drinks to about one per hour. 
  • Stay with the same group of friends for the duration of the event.
  • Consume only one type of alcohol.

Manage your Blood Alcohol Content 

If you choose to drink, refer to the charts below to maintain a safe Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level.

Headline: Stay in the Blue! BAC=Blood Alcohol Content. Blue box reads: 0.00-0.06 Coordination and judgement affected. Yellow box reads: 0.07-0.19 Coordination and judgement impaired. Over the legal limit to drive (.08). Red box reads: 0.20-0.35 Coordination and judgement very impaired. Over the legal limit to drive (.08). Footer reads: If you choose to drink, use this BAC chart to drink responsibly.
BAC Chart for Males show approximate blood alcohol content after 3 hours of drinking for body weights ranging from 120-260 pounds.
BAC Chart for Females show approximate blood alcohol content after 3 hours of drinking for body weights ranging from 90-220 pounds.