Safe Bars

Making Telluride Safer Together

WHY IT MATTERS

VIOLENCE HAPPENS HERE.
SO DOES PREVENTION.

Alcohol is involved in approximately half of all sexual assaults. While alcohol doesn't cause assault, it's often used to incapacitate victims or excuse harmful behavior. But that's not inevitable. Telluride's bars, restaurants, and festivals are uniquely positioned to be the first line of defense — not because it's their fault, but because they have the power to make a difference. 

SMRC partners with the nationally-recognized Safe Bar Network to provide free training, certification, and on-the-ground support. When our community venues and festivals commit to safety, everyone benefits.

This is what it looks like when a community decides to protect itself.

~50%

of sexual assaults involve alcohol — but training changes outcomes

Free

Training and certification for all participating venues

5

Certified Safe Bar venues already protecting Telluride

WATCH OUR VIDEO AND LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SAFE BAR PROGRAM

OUR NATIONAL PARTNER

The Safe Bar Network

SMRC is proud to deliver training in partnership with the nationally-recognized Safe Bar Network — the organization behind the program trusted by venues across the country to prevent sexual violence and harassment.

OUR PROGRAMS

TWO PROGRAMS.
ONE MISSION.

What is Safe Bars?

Safe Bars is a national program that equips bar and restaurant staff with the skills to recognize and safely intervene when they witness harassment, aggression, or situations where someone may be at risk.

Training takes just 1 hour and is offered free of charge to Telluride's alcohol-serving venues. At least 50% of wait/bar staff plus one manager complete the training to earn certification.

  • Recognize harassment, aggression, and warning signs

  • Apply the 5 D's of bystander intervention safely

  • Build team confidence and culture to act

  • Support guests while maintaining a welcoming environment

What Certified Venues Receive?

Certification isn't just a certificate — it's recognition that your venue is a leader in community safety.

  • Official Safe Bar certification & window decal

  • Promotion via Telluride Times, local magazines & KOTO Radio

  • Featured on SMRC and Safe Bar Network websites

  • Safe Bar swag — coasters, posters & materials

  • Possible reduced insurance premiums through certification

  • Stronger, more cohesive team culture

Bar and restaurant staff are in a unique position to prevent sexual violence. When they know what to look for — and feel empowered to act — everything changes."

— SMRC SAFE BARS PROGRAM


Stronghouse Pub & Brewery team after completing their Safe Bar certification. This is what community leadership looks like.

SAFE BAR CERTIFIED

TELLURIDE’S COMMUNITY.
LEADERS IN SAFETY.

These businesses have completed Safe Bar training and certification. When you see the Safe Bar seal, you know this venue is committed to your safety.


IS YOUR VENUE READY?

Join these community leaders. Training is free, takes 1 hour, and makes a real difference. Contact us to schedule.