Office of the Registrar

From: Offices of Student Success, Enrollment Services and Housing

Dear Students,
We hope this email finds you well. As we navigate through the academic year, we want to emphasize the importance of personal safety, especially when it comes to socializing and consuming alcohol. Recently, there have been multiple reports of drinks being tampered within the community. These incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of looking out for one another and being aware of your surroundings at all times. The following information will help you make informed decisions about your safety.  Remember, survivors and impacted parties are never at fault for the actions of those who choose to harm them.

Anyone with information about these incidents or other criminal behavior is encouraged to make a report to law enforcement. You can report an incident or make a complaint about an OLCC-licensed business using the anonymous phone line (503) 872-5218 or online. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, dial 911.

Content Warning: This message includes information regarding interpersonal violence. Upon reading this message, if you need supportive care, please reach out to the Center for Advocacy, Prevention & Education (541-737-2030) or OSU-Cascades Counseling.

 Safe Drinking Practices: Party Smart Avoid drinking from communal containers, these can be easily tampered with.

• Do not accept drinks from other people. If someone offers to get you a drink from a bar or at a party, go with the person to order your drink.
• Never leave your drink unattended.
• Never mix alcohol or other drugs with medications learn more.
• Utilize designated drivers or sober transportation services when under the influence.
• Look out for your friends and ask them to look out for you. More information about bystander intervention can be found here.

Symptoms of drink tampering:

The substances used to tamper with drinks are often colorless and odorless. Learn more about drink spiking symptoms.

What to do if you suspect drink tampering:

Seek immediate medical attention- do not wait! Call 911 or get to the closest emergency room.

Toxicology screening can be complicated for several reasons:

• Many drink-tampering drugs metabolize in a matter of hours, after which they will not show up in urine or blood testing.
• Some substances may not even show up on toxicology screens, and testing may not be available for all drink-tampering drugs.
• Testing can be expensive, even with insurance.

Be sure to let the emergency room staff know that you suspect your drink was tampered with so that they can gather information and offer the best care plan. The Medical Amnesty law is on your side.

Resources and Response Options: The following provides information about university resources and public safety response options. This information is not exhaustive.

• The OSU-Cascades Student CARE team can connect impacted parties with university and local resources. You may also submit on behalf of yourself or peer:  CARE Report
• The OSU – Cascades Campus Safety may be reached by calling (541) 322-3110 and can assist with campus related safety or security concerns.
• Students may access the following resources through OSU-Cascades Student Health & Wellness.

o   Individual counseling services email: [email protected].

o   Virtual counseling services through the Anytime Anywhere app.

o   Weekly support groups:

• Collegiate Recovery Group: Tuesdays from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. in Tykeson 338
• Circle of Support for Survivors: Fridays from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. virtual
• The Center for Advocacy, Prevention & Education, OSU-main campus resource available to Cascades students- is a confidential resource to support survivors of survivors of dating/domestic violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment and stalking.
• Saving Grace offers safety, hope, and healing to survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault for those in Central Oregon. Call 541-389-7021 for 24/7 helpline support.
• The Office of Equal Opportunity and Access assists OSU community members by seeking to ensure equitable and inclusive environments for all.

Stay safe and enjoy the spring season responsibly.

Image included in the email: Alcohol poisoning can be fatal. Make the call. Oregon's Medical Amnesty Law. If you seek medical assistance for yourself or another person, neither of you will be charged with a Minor in Possession (MIP) for alcohol.

Natalie Bowker, Director of Student Health and Wellness
Brooke Martindale, Student Wellness Coordinator
Megan Lohr, RN, Cascades Campus Nurse
Nathan Moses, Associate Director of Student Life and Retention