What To Do
BEFORE A HAZING:
- If you intend to join a group that has initiation rites try to find out what they are.
- If you still want to participate consider an exit strategy for yourself, to be used when you believe that you are in danger.
- For example, if you are one of 10 freshmen joining a football team, gather together before the team begins. Create a plan so that all of you can act together to prevent anyone of you from being seriously injured.
- Make a plan so that an outsider with authority can be notified if things become dangerous.
- Discuss the definition of hazardous hazing within your group so that everyone understands and agrees to act together, as a group, to stop the event or call the authorities.
- If you are already a part of a group that has a tradition to haze at specific times, such as on your birthday, make a choice about participating that day. Should you decide not to be available do not consider yourself a wimp, consider the fact that you may have just saved yourself, and others, tremendous pain and suffering. Any tradition has the potential to skid out of control, no matter how popular you may be.
Remember, the life you save may be your own!