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• Entertaining Advice

Entertaining Advice

We want you to have a fulfilling off-campus experience, but we want you to make it to class on Monday, too. Here are some tips on how to have a great event, stay safe, avoid unwanted altercations/incarcerations, and maintain good relations with the neighbors. You never know when you’ll need to ask for a cup of sugar or a couple of eggs at the last minute!

Bring in the Noise

The number one reason why police get involved with events is because of a noise complaint from a neighbor.

• Talk to your neighbors BEFORE the event.
• Let your neighbors know when you expect the event to end, and how to contact YOU DIRECTLY with any concerns. If the phone rings during the event, ANSWER IT.
• Keep the event indoors.

Size Does Matter

If the event spills outside, especially in front of your dwelling, there is a higher chance that a complaint will be made.

Secure the perimeter

Hire a bouncer who is not affiliated with the college. This way when they turn people away it won't be personal for those not allowed in to the event. It also assures that only those you invite are going to get into the function.

Know who your friends are

• Uninvited guests are the probable reason that irresponsible eventgoers get into your home and ruin your event.
• If uninvited guests won’t leave, call the police (213) 485-2563.

Alcohol

• It is illegal for anyone under 21 years of age to consume or possess alcohol.
• Keep alcohol indoors, or in your backyard. Do not give guests more alcohol when it is obvious that they have had enough. YOU can be held responsible for guests who leave your event intoxicated and cause harm to others. As host, you carry a great amount of liability for the behavior of your guests.

The Police

The two most common reasons for police visits to events are noise complaints and the suspicion of underage alcohol consumption.

• Alcohol should not be outside.
• If the police come, TALK TO THEM. Calmly tell your guests to quiet down so as not to interrupt your conversation with the officers.
• No one can legally enter your home without being let in, unless there is probable cause that a law is being broken.
• If you are asked to turn down the music, DO IT!
• If you are asked to break up the event, DO IT! If you need help in getting people to leave, ask the police for their assistance.

Final Note: Frequent noise can also incur civil penalties (for example, eviction). So play fair and everyone can have a good time.