Halloween can be a fun time for students to experience once-a-year traditions, such as costume parties, trick-or-treating, or the many festivities around campus. The Division of Public Safety and Security wants to remind the campus community about helpful tips for enjoying this Halloween season safely and responsibly.
However you decide to celebrate the holiday, consider the following:
Costumes
Be aware of what the weather conditions are expected to be when deciding on a costume. Prolonged exposure to cold weather can lead to serious health concerns that will last longer than the costume.
The university campus is a weapon-free area, so it is also important to avoid carrying a toy weapon, or a prop that could be mistaken for a weapon.
Alcohol Consumption
You do not have to be drinking to have fun on Halloween, but if you are going to, then you should do it safely. You can download the Stay In the Blue app on your phone to make sure that you are being responsible while drinking.
As a reminder, open alcohol containers are not allowed on public property. You should never accept alcoholic beverages from people you do not know, and do not leave your drink unattended.
Be sure to plan your safe ride home before you start drinking, and there are many resources available through the university for getting home. Do not get behind the wheel yourself if you have been drinking, or accept a ride from someone else who has been drinking.
If you see someone who is in need of medical attention, call 911 right away, even if they are under 21 years old.
Driving
Halloween is a holiday where people are out walking around and being more social than usual. It is important for drivers to be extra cautious, as children will be prevalent on sidewalks, roads, and crosswalks. Be careful while entering and exiting driveways and alleys, or when going around corners.
Use the Buddy System
Some events or holidays like Halloween can invite a large variety of people into the campus community. Be sure to be with a trusted friend when you are walking to and from your destination, especially at night.
Anyone on campus can directly contact DPSS by using the Emergency Blue Light Phones located throughout campus. Red box emergency phones or buttons, located in campus parking structures and building elevators, also directly connect to DPSS Dispatch Services.
Your safety is the top priority for us at DPSS, and it is important that we all look out for each other while participating in Halloween activities. If you need to report any incident or see anything suspicious happening, call 911 or text 377911.