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• Introduction
• Section 1
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• Section 2
  • Page 15
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• Section 3
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• Section 4
  • Page 28
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• Conclusion
• Links
• Take Quiz

In this first section of START, the content has been placed in two categories:

1. Steps to ensure that your party runs as smoothly as possible
2. How to avoid emergency situations and steps to take if one occurs

Before you develop a plan for your event, you will need to ask yourself some questions. These will include the type of event you plan to host, what laws and policies you should keep in mind, and how this event will affect your neighbors.

How Much Planning Will You Need to do?

Will this be an event for your student organization or a party at your house? The kind of event you’re hosting will determine how much planning is needed. A larger event, such as a student organization function, will require more time and collaboration to promote and pull off. Read your organization’s policies and procedures manual. It may contain many steps to complete before you hold a function. However, a smaller event, such as a group of friends getting together to celebrate the weekend or a special event, might not require as much planning.

Where Will it Be Held?

The first thing to consider when planning a fun and safe event is the location. Specifically, will the event be held indoors or outdoors?

For outdoor events

1. Consider where the exits and entrances will be
2. Consider how you will control who attends the event
3. Avoid locations near water
4. Keep guests away from sidewalks and other walk ways

For indoor events, you need to consider

1. Fire exits: know where they are, keep them marked and clear
2. Fire extinguishers: make sure they are available and full
3. Occupancy limits: know your limit and maintain it.
4. For more information on these topics, use this link: http://www.campusfiresafety.com/

Within the past decade overcrowding and lack of fire safety have caused significant unneeded tragedies in the US. With a little foresight these tragedies can be avoided.

If your event is at a business, the occupancy limit should be posted on a wall. Otherwise, you should consider contacting your landlord and asking what the limit is for the space where you intend to hold your event.

Finally, always have an emergency plan for any worst case scenarios. This will be discussed further in the training.

After you’ve determined where your event will be held, you’ll need to determine when it will occur. Establish a time limit for the event with a set end time. Four hours is a good estimate.

Make sure that your party occurs within a defined time period. This is a good way to avoid misunderstandings and dangers related to alcohol overconsumption and guest transportation.

After determining the location and schedule of the event and planning for it, your next step should be to speak with your neighbors.