Public safety, health services prepare for initiations weekend

For many lucky sophomores, this weekend will mark the beginning of a unique Princeton experience: the coveted eating club membership. While the initiation festivities after Bicker and sign-ins week have long generated excitement among students, alcohol-related injuries and illnesses have tarnished past years' celebrations.

To prevent such accidents, University and local officials are advising students to be aware of alcohol laws and the dangers of binge drinking.

Efforts to decrease the risks associated with initiations weekend began three weeks ago when members of Borough Police and McCosh Health Center met with the Interclub Council to discuss the importance of behaving responsibly during initiations.

Alcohol-related incidents that occur this weekend will hold a great importance in light of the Borough Police's efforts to crack down on alcohol consumption on the 'Street' in the past two years.

During this weekend last year, reports of several students needing medical transport renewed discussion among Borough officials of a possible alcohol ordinance that would allow police to cite underage drinkers on private property.

The ICC has tried to build an amicable relationship with Borough Police over the past year.

Though the police department does not plan to significantly increase patrol of Prospect Avenue this weekend, students should be aware that their actions will be monitored, said Borough Police Capt. Anthony Federico.

"If they're underage, if they're in possession of alcohol and seen by police, they'll be charged appropriately," Federico said. Violations of underage drinking laws are reported to local law enforcement officials and academic deans, he said.

University Public Safety will take a similar approach. Though they will not be heightening security to control festivities, they are prepared for rowdy behavior.

Public Safety Crime Prevention Specialist Barry Weiser acknowledged that this year's emphasis on enforcing underage drinking laws may reduce the number of alcohol-related incidents.

"I assume we're not expecting Bicker to be as bad as it's been in the past," he said.

Federico was not so optimisitic about student behavior. "I don't anticipate it to be any less than what it's been," he said.

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Federico's concern may be justified. Despite the ICC's attempts to police themselves, alcohol-related injuries have not subsided in recent years.

Last year, McCosh treated 11 University students for alcohol-related injuries, four of whom spent the night at PMC.

The McCosh staff has recommended tips about how to handle intoxicated people.

Never leave that person alone.

Drinking coffee, eating, walking or taking a cold shower will not sober a person.

Do not assume that because a person is conscious or has vomited that medical attention is not needed.

Seek medical attention. Admission to McCosh is not grounds for disciplinary action.

Health Services Director Pamela Bowen said few intoxicated patients have been admitted this week, in which sign-in clubs have held events for their new members.

"This week has been good," she said. "Sometimes we see [drinking] extended all through the week."