To reduce the risk of alcohol-related accidents, the Interfraternity Council is trying to implement alcohol policies which call for fraternities to take maximum responsibility.

“The alcohol policies are on our (IFC) own,” said IFC President Tom Zur. “The policies are actions to try to take the maximum amount of responsibility (to) prevent an accident before it happens.”

Jeff Cufaude, activities adviser for University Programming and Activities, said fraternities have to follow NIU alcohol guidelines. He said the IFC is trying to implement its own risk-reduction policies in addition to NIU’s.

Zur said the IFC is not being forced to pass alcohol policies. Rather, the IFC wants to implement policies to ensure maximum success of fraternity parties, he said.

The policies will be discussed at the next IFC meeting which will be held at the Sigma Nu fraternity house Tuesday. There is a good chance the policies will be voted on as well, Zur said.

The IFC’s guidelines will be enforced by the IFC’s party patrol. Members of the IFC will patrol each fraternity party to make sure the guidelines are being followed, Zur said.

Jeff Parker, IFC risk-reduction committee chairman, said penalties for breaking the IFC’s guidelines can result in fines of up to $500, and the status of an offending chapter can be put on probation by the IFC.

The IFC’s guidelines include providing an escort service to ensure female guests will arrive home safely, Zur said. Several guests have to travel back to the residence halls and the IFC wants to make sure they get home safely, he said.

For those who do not want an escort from a fraternity member, the Student Association’s dial-a-ride service is available, Zur said. The dial-a-ride should be utilized more so guests do not have to walk home.

“No charging will be allowed for social functions—no selling empty cups,” Zur said. Fraternity members will watch for intoxicated people and will reserve the right to stop serving them alcoholic beverages, he said.

Parker said a ticket system for all fraternities is part of the policy. Tickets will limit the number of people that can enter a party.

Monitors who do not consume alcohol must be present at parties, Zur said. Food and non-alcoholic beverages must be provided at each party as well.

Parker said fraternities planning a party must give the IFC a 48-hour advance notice.

Zur said a notice prior to a party will allow a gathering to be planned properly such as arranging for rides home.