Most fans who consume alcohol know how to drink responsibly and behave courteously toward their neighbors. But there are always some who don't.

Alcohol-related problems may occur during NCAA sporting events, even if the college stadium or arena does not serve alcohol. The main culprit in these cases involves the pregame and postgame revelries in the parking lots and surrounding facilities, commonly known as tailgating.

Recognizing that heavy drinking may lead to disruptive behaviors in the stands, many colleges and universities are taking a different tack on tailgating.

One such example is what is termed the "no re-entry" policy, also known as the "no pass-out" policy. The Southeastern Conference, at its spring meeting last year, adopted a no re-entry policy that prohibits fans from re-entering the stadium if they go out at halftime or any time during the game.

The University of Florida had appointed a committee made up of members of the University Athletic Association Boards, the Intercollegiate Committee, alumni and students to address this issue of re-entry. Input also was sought from local law enforcement officials and legal counsel.

It was determined that very few stadiums around the country (fewer than seven) allowed re-entry, and that there were potential liability issues should an incident occur in the stadium.

The motivation behind the entire concept, both on the part of the university and the league, was to ensure the safest stadium environment possible for fans. Simply allowing several thousand fans to leave for whatever reason is not conducive to optimal stadium operations. A no re-entry policy ensures spectator safety and allows all fans to enjoy the game.

In addition to this policy, other practices are contributing to more family-friendly events, ones that celebrate the accomplishments of the athletes, provide a festive gathering place and nurture a sense of pride in the institution. These practices deliver an exciting, enjoyable and safe experience to the students, alumni and the surrounding community.

Following is a list of suggested activities for schools to implement in support of the move toward responsible alcohol use at athletics events:

Use electronic media in stadiums or arenas to advertise healthy choices and alternative activities;

Host tailgating booths that offer non-alcoholic beverages, fun foods and activities;

Advertise positive majority behaviors in game programs and sports sections of the campus paper;

Have coaches and athletes make alcohol-abuse prevention public service announcements on radio or television broadcasts during pre-, post- and in-game shows;

Identify low-risk alcohol choices on cups and napkins in tailgate areas;

Solicit sponsorship of tailgating "VIP" tents from area businesses that will then provide lots of goodies in the tent -- but no alcohol;

Hold weekly competitions between student organizations or groups and make meaningful awards to the most creative, fun and interactive tailgaters;

Enlist alumni association assistance in promoting high-profile alternative tailgating;

Partner student affairs and athletics in designing postgame celebrations; and

Partner campus and athletics public relations to coordinate positive prevention messages.

(Note: The NCAA enacted legislation -- Bylaw 31.1.14 "Restricted Advertising and Sponsorship Activities" -- that restricts the advertisement, sales or promotion of alcoholic beverages during NCAA-governed championship events. Restrictions on alcohol use at regular-season and nonchampionship events would fall under the institutional policies that govern that facility.)

Nicholas Cassisi is the team physician at the University of Florida.