Student Health

What You Need to Know about BU’s Good Samaritan Policy on Alcohol and Drugs

And when to call for help

With Marathon Monday on the horizon comes parties and other social events. And with that, it’s important to know what to do if a good time takes a wrong turn. First of all, not all Terriers drink. But whether you choose to drink or not, knowing Boston University’s policies regarding alcohol and drug use and the signs of an emergency may help you save a life or prevent serious harm.

What is BU’s Good Samaritan Policy?

The policy states: When a Terrier seeks help for themselves or others who’ve used alcohol or drugs, neither student will receive a sanction for alcohol or drug use as long as they complete an educational or counseling program on campus.

Why does BU have this policy?

BU’s top priority is student safety. The University does not want students to be afraid to call for help in a dangerous situation for fear of being disciplined by the University.

What if my friend is under 21 or if I am?

Even if you or a friend is underage, you still will not receive a sanction from BU. So, call for help if a situation looks dangerous.

How do I know when to call for help?

If you see someone showing any one of these signs after consuming alcohol or other drugs, seek help immediately:

• Vomiting: Frequent vomiting, vomiting while asleep, or not waking up after vomiting
• Unconscious: Cannot wake up if you call their name or shake them
• Physical changes: Irregular breathing, pale or blueish skin, cold to the touch, irregular heartbeat
• Disoriented: Confused about their surroundings or the time, cannot answer basic questions like where they live or go to school

If you’re not sure if someone is having an alcohol or drug emergency, call for help immediately—response time is crucial.

How do I call for help?

If you’re on campus, call the BU Police Department at 617-353-2121. Their officers are most familiar with BU’s campus and can reach you in minutes.

If you’re off-campus, call 911.

Back to the policy…why is the word “use” underlined?

Good question. It emphasizes that the policy applies to a student’s consumption of alcohol or other drugs. If you’ve committed a crime while under the influence, such as vandalism or assault, that will still be subject to BU’s sanctions for those actions.

What are the educational and counseling programs?

Students may be required to take online education training about how to make intentional decisions about substance use. Alternately, students may be required to meet with a staff member in Health Promotion & Prevention if they went to the hospital for alcohol or drug use. These programs are confidential, and there is no shame or judgment. The programs are designed to support your well-being and help you reflect on your relationship with alcohol or other substances.

What are some tips for drinking more safely?

First, it’s worth noting that many ways to have fun without drinking exist, and many Terriers don’t drink! If you do choose to drink alcohol, these tips can help you and your friends do so responsibly:

• Track your drinks, keeping in mind standard drink sizes
• Eat before and while drinking
• Set a limit in advance and stick to it
• Plan on ways to say no if you’re offered drinks past your limit
• Limit drinking games, or substitute with a nonalcoholic drink
• Bring/drink nonalcoholic drinks, or alternate between alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks
• Offer to be the sober support for a friend who will be drinking

Where can I go if I’m questioning my alcohol or substance use?

This anonymous screening tool can help you identify whether alcohol or other drug use is negatively impacting your life. 

Student Health Services has a new Substance Use Support Group that provides a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for students with substance use challenges to learn healthy coping strategies. The group begins September 22. Individual counseling sessions through Behavioral Medicine can also address substance use concerns.

If you are a student in recovery from alcohol or drug use, the BU Collegiate Recovery Program is a welcoming community of BU students committed to long-term sobriety. The group provides a support network, social gatherings, and more.