Registered Student Organization Member TrainingSAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Student Activities Office of the Dean of Students Division of Student Affairs The University of Texas at Austin∙ ∙ ∙

Required Safety Topics1.Possession and use of alcoholic

beverages and illegal drugs; 2.Hazing; 3.Sexual assault and harassment; 4.Fire and other life safety issues; 5.Registered student organization

travel; 6.Behavior at organization events;

and 7.Adoption of a risk management

policy.

Hazing Prevention

SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Student Activities Office of the Dean of Students Division of Student Affairs The University of Texas at Austin∙ ∙ ∙

Hazing Defined Hazing is defined as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act occurring on or off campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members are or include students at an educational institution.

But what about consent? • Texas Law

▫ Sec. 37.154 states that Consent is Not a Defense:“It is not a defense to prosecution for the offense under

this subchapter that the person against whom the hazing was directed consented to or acquiesced in the hazing activity.”

• University Policy“The fact that a person consented to or acquiesced in a

hazing activity is not a defense to prosecution for hazing under the law.”

Myths and Facts about HazingMYTH: Hazing is only a problem for sororities and fraternities. FACT: Hazing is a societal problem. Hazing incidents occur among athletic teams, marching bands, the military, spirit organizations, religious clubs, professional schools and other types of organizations.

MYTH: “Eliminating hazing makes an organization just like any other social club. It will be too easy to become a member.”FACT: Any group can haze new members - that's the easy way out. It takes vision and commitment to run a good, non-hazing program.

MYTH: “A little hazing should be okay, as long as there's no mean-spirited or injurious intent.”FACT: Regardless of intent, some group bonding activities designed to be "all in good fun" still may raise some serious safety concerns.

Reporting ObligationAccording to UT - Austin’s Institutional Rules, Chapter 16, Prohibition of Hazing Policy, a person must report:• If you believe you have been subjected to hazing; or• If you have knowledge of hazing activities

If you become aware of or were subjected to hazing, please report the incident to the Office of the Dean of Students.• Online: http:/deanofstudents.utexas.edu/complaint.php • By Phone: (512) 471-3065

Potential Consequences•Individual Discipline

▫The dean of students may initiate disciplinary proceedings against a student accused of violating the hazing prohibition policy.

•Organizational Discipline▫The dean of students may also initiate

disciplinary proceedings against an organization accused of violating the hazing prohibition policy.

• Criminal and Civil Liability ▫ Through the criminal process, the District

Attorney’s office can investigate and press charges against the organization and the individual(s). Through the civil process, individuals can be sued as an organization and as an individual.

Drug Possession, Use, and Abuse

SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Safety Education Office of the Dean of Students Division of Student Affairs The University of Texas at Austin∙ ∙ ∙

Facts About Drugs at UT - AustinPast Year Use:• 28% of UT-Austin students smoked marijuana

during the last year• 31% of UT-Austin students used illicit drugs during

the last year

Lifetime Use (at least once):• 44% of UT-Austin students have smoked marijuana• 7% of UT-Austin students have used cocaine• 7% of UT-Austin students have used amphetamines• 7% of UT-Austin students have used Ecstasy• 10% of UT-Austin students have used other illicit

drugs

Drug Problem Red FlagsLife problems related to the drug useSetting and exceeding limitsMaking promises about use and breaking those

promisesLying about or trying to hide the amount/frequency of

drug useForgetting or denying things that happened while

intoxicatedBehaving very differently when intoxicated than when

soberAvoiding social functions where drugs are not

available.Feeling guilty, embarrassed, or remorseful about

things done/said while intoxicatedVery high tolerance

Potential Affected Areas•Health and Well-being

•College Education

•Graduate School or Employment

•Participation in Athletic Activities

•Family, Friends, and Peers

Intervening: Taking ActionTalk with a Professional

University Health Services: (512) 475-8252Office of the Dean of Students: (512) 471-5017Counseling and Mental Health Center: (512) 471-

2255Confidentially Report Your Concerns

Behavioral Concerns Advice Line: (512) 232-5050 (24 hours a day, 7 days week, 365 days a year)

Conduct an InterventionHelp a peer or friend understand and accept the

nature of their relationship with drugs, ask them to address the problem, and lead them to help.

Alcohol Use and Abuse

SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Student Activities Office of the Dean of Students Division of Student Affairs The University of Texas at Austin∙ ∙ ∙

Alcohol OverdoseCritical medical situation if:• Passed out and cannot be awakened or is semi-

conscious but incoherent• Vomiting without awakening• Shallow, irregular breathing• Cold, clammy, pale, bluish skin• Seizures, convulsion, or rigid spasmsWhat to do• Call 911 IMMEDIATELY• Put the person in the recovery positions

(Bacchus Maneuver)• Stay with the person until help arrives

University Policy• Clearly prohibits underage drinking and other

violations consistent with state law• Student(s) subject to discipline whether

conduct takes place on or off campus or whether civil or criminal penalties are also imposed for such conduct

• Ignorance of the policy does not protect from disciplinary action

• Important to become familiar with UT policies• Go to

www.healthyhorns.utexas.edu/ruleslaws.html

University Policy - AMECH• AMECH = Alcohol Medical Emergency Call for

Help• Free service to currently enrolled UT students• Avoid disciplinary action from Student Judicial

Services• Call 911 for immediate help; later you will be

referred to SJS for the suspected alcohol incident

• Eligible student(s) referred to education and consultation without formal disciplinary action

• Declining education or failing to comply makes you subject to formal disciplinary action

• More information, call SJS at (512) 471-2841

State Law Issues• Many students familiar with state laws• Underage, excessive drinking, and alcohol-

influenced behavior most common violations• Impaired driving commonly problematic• Many students fail to discourage drinking

and driving• Find least drunk person for designated

driving instead of sticking to sober driving instead

• Many unfamiliar with Affirmative Link• Go to

www.healthyhorns.utexas.edu/ruleslaws.html

Protect YourselfReasonable Efforts:•Prevent service of alcohol to minors (check

IDs)•Have food & non-alcoholic beverages

available•Avoid drinking games•Call for help (fights, injury, or alcohol

overdose) •Provide all guests safe rides home

Reducing Risk of Sexual Assault

SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Student Activities Office of the Dean of Students Division of Student Affairs The University of Texas at Austin∙ ∙ ∙

Definition of Sexual AssaultSexual Assault occurs when a sexual act is directed against

another person when that person has not consented, is incapable of consenting, or when the act is

forced.

ConsentIs… Is not…

• Based on choice• Active, not passive• Only possible when

there is equal power• Giving one’s permission

by actively saying, “Yes”• Negotiable at each

stage of intimacy: saying yes to one sexual act does not indicate yes to everything

Giving in because of fear or coercion

Based on manipulation, deception, or lying

Possible when one person has more power

Clear when alcohol and drugs are involved…Substances impair our ability to consent as well as our ability to read another’s signals/body language

Predatory DrugsAlcohol is the most frequently used drug to

facilitate sexual assault.Other drugs include GHB, Rohipnol, and

Ketamine which often affect memory and the ability to control one’s limbs/body.

These can be easily slipped into someone’s individual drink or into a group drink that is not being monitored.

The use of these drugs to facilitate sex with someone without their knowledge constitutes sexual assault.

How can we lessen our organization’s risk?•Have someone designated to monitor and

control the distribution of alcohol. •Establish an organizational culture that

does not tolerate sexually predatory behaviors and holds the offenders of such behavior accountable with tangible consequences.

•Intervene when you observe coercive or questionable behavior.

How can we lessen our organization’s risk?Attend functions, parties, etc. with at least

one other person that you trust. Arrive together and leave together. Look out for each other while at the function.

If you choose to drink, maintain control of your particular drink. If you set it down or it is out of your control for any period of time, throw it out and get a new one.

Begin and continue dialogues about these issues.

Have resources available for the ongoing education of your organization’s members.

Sexual Harassment/Misconduct

SAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Student Activities Office of the Dean of Students Division of Student Affairs The University of Texas at Austin∙ ∙ ∙

Sexual Harassment/Misconduct•Sexual Harassment is a form of sex

discrimination that involves the imposition of an unwanted condition or requirement on the continued employment or education of the victim. Two forms of sexual harassment:• Quid pro quo harassment• Hostile environment harassment

•Sexual Misconduct is conduct of a sexual nature that, although not so serious or pervasive that it rises to the level of sexual harassment, is unprofessional and/or inappropriate for the educational and working environment.

Where can Sexual Harassment Occur?• Sexual Harassment can occur anywhere on- or

off-campus.▫Not confined to particular location▫The number of incident at a location reflects

the amount of time students spend there

• Among students who have been harassed:▫39% were in a dorm or student housing▫37% were outside on campus grounds▫24% were in common areas of campus

buildings▫20% were in classrooms▫27% were “someplace else”▫12% were unsure where they were harassed

How to Report Sexual HarassmentAny student who believes that he or she may

have been subjected to sex discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual misconduct by a member of the faculty or staff of the University, fellow student, or visitor or contractor to the University campus is encouraged to consult with or report such conduct immediately to any of the following persons or offices:Dr. LaToya Hill

(512) 471-5017 Latoya.hill@austin.utexas.edu

Ms. Katherine Green (512) 471-1849 katherine.antwi.green@austin.utexas.edu

Fire and Life SafetySAFEY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Student Activities Office of the Dean of Students Division of Student Affairs The University of Texas at Austin∙ ∙ ∙

How to respond to a crisis at your event•Call for help.•Stay calm.•Be prepared to give as much information

possible to 911 and the responding emergency personnel.

•Contact the Office of the Dean of Student as soon as possible to get assistance with how to address media, if necessary, and see what resources they can offer. Call (512) 471-5017.

Crime PreventionUse the blue light call boxes on campus if you

need assistance.Use the buddy system and walk in well lit

areas.Use UTPD to provide security for on-campus

events.Keep your valuables out of sight in your car

and don’t forget to lock your doors.Take a R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense)

program classSign up for Campus Watch.Contact UTPD to borrow their engraver to

engrave your belongings.Visit UTPD website at www.utexas.edu/police.

My friend is acting strange…•Behavior Concerns Advice Line (BCAL)

▫(512) 232-5050 or www.utexas.edu/safety/bcal

▫For concerns about a member of the UT community.

▫Can be anonymous if calling the 24 hour line.

▫Can submit a report on-line through the website, which requires a UT EID logon.

If you see it…report it.Slippery floorsWater leaksBroken glassStrange odors (gas leak, fire, chemical,

etc.)Lights outBroken doors and/or locksEmergency equipment missing or not

workingA person who doesn’t belong in a

particular area

Weapons• It is a violation of Section 11–804 of the

Institutional Rules on Student Services and Activities to ▫“possesses, uses, or displays firearms,

facsimile firearms, ammunition, explosives, or other weapons on property owned or controlled by the University, without written permission from the dean of students” including university residence halls

• Both students and registered student organizations who wish to bring a weapon or facsimile weapon onto the UT campus must have advance permission from the Office of the Dean of Students. ▫http://deanofstudents.utexas.edu/pses/downloads/WeaponsApprovalForm.pdf

OR ▫Call (512) 471-5017

Registered Student Organization TravelSAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Student Activities Office of the Dean of Students Division of Student Affairs The University of Texas at Austin∙ ∙ ∙

University Travel Policies (Domestic)(When do they apply?)

SSO Travel Policy

Applies to all travel to domestic destinations more than 25 miles away from the main campus that involves: sponsored student

organizations, OR enrolled students

attending events or activities that are organized and/or sponsored by the university.

RSO Travel Policy

Applies to all travel to domestic destinations more than 25 miles away from the main campus in which:a registered student

organization requires a student member(s) to attend the activity or event.

University Travel Policies (International) (When do they apply?)All UT students, including sponsored and registered student organizations, must comply with university travel policies for international destinations.

It DOES NOT matter:whether the travel is "required" for a member; orwhat the purpose is of your organization's international travel

Please contact Student Activities at 512-471-3065 for assistance complying with the UT International Travel Policy.

University Travel Policies (What are we required to do?)

Sponsored Student Organization Travel

Domestic: must complete required paperwork and obtain pre-approval from UT administrator from sponsoring department

International: must complete required paperwork/obtain pre-approval from sponsoring department and UT International Office

Registered Student Organization Travel

Domestic (that is required of members): must complete required paperwork and obtain pre-approval from Student Activities

International (whether or not it is required): must complete required paperwork/obtain pre-approval from Student Activities and UT International Office

General Emergency ProceduresIf you are involved in an accident:• Stop immediately and call 911 or local police• Assess the situation and render aid as

appropriate• Fill out a police report• Obtain the names and addresses of all witnesses• Contact your advisor• Contact the Office of the Dean of Students

▫ Student Emergency Services: (512) 471-5017▫ Student Activities: (512) 471-3065

Behavior at Parties and Other Organization EventsSAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Student Activities Office of the Dean of Students Division of Student Affairs The University of Texas at Austin∙ ∙ ∙

Planning Tips to RememberWhen planning an event make sure to:• Choose events that reflect the values and beliefs of

our registered student organization and members.• Invite people and groups we know.• Appoint or designate “event monitors” to handle

emergencies and other event details.• Appoint “designated drivers” if hosting an event

where alcohol will be served.• Confront inappropriate behavior quickly and firmly. • Have an emergency/crisis management plan in place

and review it with all of members prior to the event.• Remember that the types of events we host are a

reflection of our organization’s values.

Theme Parties•Why this theme?•Is it about a living culture?•Is it about a current subculture?•Have you consulted either people from

that community or with recognized “experts” (community leaders or faculty) about the theme?

•Are the people whose culture is being represented adequately empowered in society?

•Think and talk about what you are planning to do!

Factors to consider before planning a “Date” or “Slave” Auction

•Involves “bidding” on a human being•The process devalues a human being•This country’s real and tragic history•Safety concerns

For ALL of these reasons, registered student organizations are encouraged

to engage in more imaginative and feasible alternatives to these

activities.

The Event Planner(s)Student organization events can be quite complex

to manage (budgets, schedules, seating arrangements, training for volunteers, etc.).

Select an officer, other organization member, or committee/team to take the lead (i.e., the event planners).

Qualities of good event planners (or event planning teams) include: experience within the organization; excellent organizational, communication and time

management skills; ability to handle stressful, fast-paced situations; and passion and a strategic vision.

Prohibited Student ConductEngages in harassment or discrimination against

another student or University employeeDamages, defaces, destroys, alters, or takes UT

property without authorization of the UniversityImpedes or interferes with an authorized University

function (e.g., teaching, research, or disciplinary)Endangers the health or safety of another student or

University employeeFailure to identify oneself/provides false information to

an institutional representativeUnauthorized entry into university buildings or

fountainsEngages in conduct that violates federal; state; and or

local laws (e.g., theft, hazing, DWI, underage drinking)

Summary and ConclusionSAFETY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Student Activites Office of the Dean of Students Division of Student Affairs The University of Texas at Austin∙ ∙ ∙

Review: Campus ResourcesFree Wallet Cards Available

Registered Student Organization Safety Education Resources

Emergency InformationContent-Specific Web pages for Each Topic

Training Resources - http://deanofstudents.utexas.edu/sa/pses/onlinetrain.php

Office of the Dean of StudentsStudent Activities– (512) 471-3065Greek, Leadership and Intercultural Education

– (512) 471-9700

Questions?

DON’T FORGET TO SIGN OUT ON THE ATTENDANCE SHEET!