Frequently Asked Questions

Why the Red Watch?

The Red Watch symbolizes the "band" of students who are trained to "watch" over one another when "every second counts."

Is this a medical amnesty program?

No. Red Watch Band as a training program does not prescribe how institutions should approach the issue of medical amnesty with regard to a campus conduct code. Our hope is that because Red Watch Band training includes coverage of your institution's policies regarding alcohol and other drug use, it will serve as a starting point for productive dialogue between students and administration about the effectiveness of existing alcohol policies.

Is this a Good Samaritan law program?

No. Red Watch Band is a voluntary training program that is designed to focus on the importance of bystander intervention in order to prevent death from alcohol overdose.

Is this an abstinence program?

No. Red Watch Band is a bystander training program focused on knowledge, skill, and confidence building regarding preventing death from alcohol overdose. .

Can we get a copy of Stony Brook's curriculum?

Yes. For more information contact us prevention_outreach@stonybrook.edu

How long has this program been in existence?

This program started at Stony Brook of University on March 15, 2009, and was launched nationally in early May 2009.

Why do you include CPR training?

The Heart Savers Friends and Family CPR training is used both to give students certification in a clear set of skills, as well as help provide context for the medical seriousness of unconsciousness or semi-consciousness. Stony Brook's Center for Prevention and Outreach has partner with departments such as Campus Recreation, Environmental Health and Safety, the Volunteer Ambulance Corps, and University Police to provide CPR training.

What are the critical resources needed to make this program work?

Community buy-in about the importance of a bystander intervention program for alcohol-related medical emergencies from students at the institution all the way to the President's Office.
Student input and active involvement.
Customization to the campus environment and campus policies.
Integration of program into a broader comprehensive alcohol and other drug prevention plan.
Institutional support.

Who teaches this program?

At Stony Brook, Center for Prevention and Outreach staff teach and facilitate the alcohol emergency portion of the program including the role plays.