If celebrating involves a drink or two, remember to keep yourself and your friends safe. A party at your home means that you are legally responsibly for the safety of all of your guests (even the uninvited, very drunk ones) until they are sober enough to be on their own. Remember to serve munchies, and have non-alcoholic beverages available. You may need room for those who are unable to drive, to sleep over. Be prepared to refuse entry to those people you don’t know. And you may have to keep some people’s car keys to prevent them driving after drinking.

If you’re going out, space your alcohol intake with soft drinks, water, and food. And plan ahead: have money to call a cab, or 50 cents to call a friend or family member for a lift home. Maybe you can make arrangements to stay over at your friends’ home, if you are sure you are safe there.

Remember, never leave your drink unattended while you go to the washroom or get up to dance. The rave drugs and rohypnol are all DATE RAPE drugs, meaning that they cause amnesia—you can’t remember what you did the night before. Be “safe”—don’t wake up “sorry”.

There are many ways to celebrate your accomplishments and hard work, that don’t involve drinking or drugs. Be creative! Gather together to prepare a gourmet meal, meet on the bike or walking paths and walk, jog, bike with friends. Share a day of activities with your classmates.

Whatever you do, have fun! Be proud! Stay safe!