Tips & tricks for staying safe at SEMO tailgates

Though tailgating is a fun tradition, safety should always come first. With large crowds, excitement, and alcohol, it’s easy for things to get out of hand if precautions aren’t taken.

Senior psychology major Holly Taylor believes the best way to stay safe is to stick with a friend.

“I like the buddy system. Keeping a buddy with me helps me stay safe, so we can get back to our original group.having at least one or two of your friends with you at all times can ensure you’re being safe at a tailgate,” Taylor said.

Taylor emphasized the importance of communication- not just at tailgates, but in any situation.

“Honestly communication is key in everything. As long as you're communicating. If you and your friend are gonna go off somewhere, you need to let someone know so they know where you are,” Taylor said.

Junior animal science and biomedical science double major Kaelyn George said you should also be aware of your drink and know who you are with.

“If you have an open container you should always keep track of it and never leave it with someone else. You should always be with someone that you know and trust,” said George. “Never stray off alone.”

George added that it’s important to monitor your alcohol intake and stay hydrated during tailgates.

“When drinking alcohol, always make sure you’re drinking water while you're drinking. Just to make sure that you’re staying hydrated and not drinking above your limit.“

Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Operations Nate Saverino said that there are university officials around tailgating areas to ensure the safety of students and other participants of the tailgate.

“We have DPS officers on-site to help with any issues that might take place during tailgates. Of course we don’t have to walk through metal detectors because it’s an open space but we have an entry that officers are stationed at,” said Saverino.

He added that the athletic department works hand-in-hand with DPS to help with crowd control and any emergency situations that may arise.

“The athletic office works with DPS, we have a weekly meeting going into game weeks, we have an event manager on duty, as well as our administrative staff on duty. In the event of any sort of issue, like this weekend weather could be a possibility, we have procedures in place to handle emergency situations,” Saverino said.

While tailgates are meant to be fun, Saverino reminded everyone to prioritize safety.

“Alcohol consumption is allowed in tailgating areas on game days, of course you have to be of age to consume alcohol. We hope and ask that all of our fans celebrate game day responsibly,” Saverino said.