Protective Behaviors

Image with sports theme to describe protective behaviors regarding what, how, and when

What are Protective Behaviors?

Protective behaviors are harm-reduction strategies that students can use to increase everyone's safety. Below are some non-judgmental, practical, proactive action steps that will empower Jayhawks in their decision-making.  

Before going out for an event:

  • Identify someone to be your buddy for the duration of the event.
  • Plan how you will return home together safely after the event, such as identifying a sober designated driver or using a rideshare service.
  • Make sure your cell phone is charged.

While out for the event:

  • Check-in with your buddy regularly (face-to-face every 30 minutes is ideal).
  • Always eat food before and while drinking alcohol.
  • Alternate non-alcoholic beverages with alcoholic beverages.
  • Do not exceed more than 4 drinks for the duration of the event.
  • Pace your drinks to only one per hour.
  • Have your buddy let you know when you have had enough to drink.
  • Stay with the same group of friends for the duration of the event.

Manage your Blood Alcohol Content 

If you choose to drink alcohol, refer to the charts below to maintain a safe Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level. Please remember, these are general guidelines as there are many factors that contribute to 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.