Let me set the scene for you: It’s a Friday night at Midtown.
You and a group friends have dolled up in your Balls best: high-waisted cut-offs, flawlessly wanded tresses and those go-to wedges that say, “I might look posh, but I will inevitably be plastered by the suspicious grime of the Cantina bathroom and cranberry cocktail by 12:45.” You throw back a couple of Fireball shots, a few more SoCo limes and that Patron doozy courtesy of striped Polo guy three bar stools away. The night grows longer, your morals get looser, and before you know it your posse has dwindled. Only the pros remain and by last call, even they succumb to the tantalizing lure of the Triple Tasty. You’re left with a few thoughts: “I bet I could climb that tree outside of Swamp,” “Why are there so many dads here?” and most importantly, “Where did everybody go?”
Via: keffkorhan.com
There seems to be a largely understated epidemic present amidst the cheap drinks and casual atmosphere of Gainesville nightlife. Fat Daddy’s becomes too crowded, 3-4-1s get the best of you or suddenly that booty call looks a whole lot more appealing. So what do you do? Stealthily peace out and begin the lonely, 2 am trek home. Alone.
Nearly everyone is guilty of it and, in my experience, the up-and-go is usually treated with indifference. Unfortunately, ignorance isn’t always bliss. This is especially true when it comes to the whereabouts of you and your friends after the sun does down. Ladies, I’m talking to you.
This cautionary tale has been passed down from father to daughter for generations and usually comes packaged with much redundancy and a pocket-sized can of pink pepper spray. However, drunken night after drunken night, it continues to be downplayed. We all have that one friend whose malter-ego is Sketchball McGee: repeat offender of the classic drink-and-dash. Maybe it’s you. Regardless, I contend that this scenario is neglected amongst college students and in desperate need of attention. A college town like Gainesville provides us with new opportunities and freedom away from the hovering nature of our parents, but we are not invincible to crime.
According to Neighborhood Scout, Gainesville has a crime index of 7, meaning that it is safer than only 7% of all US cities. Compared with the crime rates in other Florida cities, Gainesville’s is 12% higher than the statewide average. 925 violent crimes occur annually and, you guessed it, most of these occur when the bars are bumpin’. While every environment suffers some level of felony, student populations are particularly vulnerable, especially when they are stumbling solo in high heels. So, why do we continue to sit idly as Blackout Becky announces her solitary voyage back to Campus View?
You don’t need a self-righteous lecture, as this habitual storyline is all too familiar to me. You do, however need to use some common sense. Don’t become part of a crime report statistic. There is safety in numbers and, in my opinion, being a concerned and thoughtful friend is more important than hanging around for one more pitcher of Coors. Have a good time while you’re out on the town, but don’t instill drunk you with the undeserved credit of sound navigation and judgment. She really doesn’t deserve it. Always travel in good company. If you see something suspicious or feel uneasy, don’t be afraid to relay the information to UFPD. If you absolutely must, make like a freshman and call SNAP for a ride. And for the love of God, please watch out for each other.
Stop picking filters for one minute and download one (or all) of these little gems designed especially for the scenarios described above:
Circle of 6
This is an app for iPhone and Android that makes it quick and easy to reach the six friends you choose. Whether you need help getting home or an interruption when a creep can’t stop, won’t stop, two touches lets your circle know where you are and how they can help you. Plus, icons represent actions so that no one can tell what you’re up to. It’s fasy, easy and private… and Vice President Joe Biden’s idea (what a caring old geezer).
Safety Siren
Just a quick tap or shake sets off a blaring alarm, and the app sends your preset emergency contacts an email with a Google map of your exact location.
Panic Guard
Like Safety Siren, a single tap or shake set off a blaring alarm, but it also secretly starts recording video of your attacker on your phone so they can be identified later. The app tracks your location as soon as the alarm is activated and sends your coordinates to your preselected contacts and police, so even if you run far, far away, they can still find you.
It’s a dog-eat-dog world out there and we should put humanity above dirt-cheap drink deals any day. The last thing you want is the distress of your bestie’s unknown locale as your phone alerts you that the suspect is still “at large” and wearing khakis.
Do the right thing.
Photo courtesy of: Majawu.com
