Spring Break has arrived and is sending many Penn State students scrambling to prepare for fun in the sun.

Although spring break is anticipated by many students, vacationers also need to think about certain safety issues that could possibly put a damper on their trip, local authorities and travel agents say.

Bonnie R. Harper, an agent at Campbell Travel, 137 S. Pugh St, arranged more than 100 spring break packages last year. From her experience, she says students do not have to travel far from the safety of their hotels for a good time.

"I would recommend enjoying resort-based activities, because they offer safe entertainment," she said. Harper also recommends carrying protective spray in the event you are caught alone in a bad situation.

Sean Green (freshman-film and video) vacationed in Cancun last spring and agrees with Harper.

"The clubs and resorts seemed pretty safe, but no one should go walking around alone, especially downtown," Green said. "Spring Break can get pretty crazy with all the parties, hooking up and drinking."

According to a University of Wisconsin study, more than 75 percent of males and 43 percent of females reported being intoxicated on a daily basis during break. Women who had consumed large amounts of alcohol during break were more likely to have been the victims of sexual assault.

Among college students, 75 percent of reported date rapes involved alcohol, according to the study. Students who engaged in consensual sex over break were less likely to use condoms, even if one was available.

Lorrie Rosenberger, co-director of Womyn's Concerns and director of women's affairs for the Undergraduate Student Government, said, "It shouldn't be just the woman's job to stay safe on spring break. We believe that it is not just women's responsibility to prevent rape and assault."

But Rosenberger (senior-sociology, psychology and women's studies) does go on to add that both men and women should, "Use safety in numbers, watch your drinks and keep tabs on your friends."

To avoid drinks spiked with Rohypnol or GBH, two colorless, odorless and tasteless "date rape" drugs, Officer Tony Lopinsky, of the State College Police Department, warns, "Always keep an eye on your drink and get a new one if you leave it."

Most students are not too worried about safety problems arising on vacation. Melanie Wong (sophomore-marketing and international business) will be heading to the Bahamas' Paradise Island with a few friends.

"We will be staying at a friend's timeshare, so it seems a littler safer," Wong said. "I know we're not going to leave each other when we go out at night."

The State College Police Department has issued a news release listing semester break tips and precautions for those leaving town. The list advises to be sure all doors and windows are locked to prevent burglary, and to store expensive items with someone not going on vacation to avoid theft. If leaving a car in town over break, police advise to park and lock it in a well-lit area and remove all valuables such as CDs.

The department also asks those remaining in town over break to be observant and report any suspicious activity to police by calling 911.