Halloween Safety Tips With DPS
Having fun on Halloween can take a couple of different forms for the college student, but no matter what you’re doing it’s important to be safe. We reached out to DPS for their insight on what will keep your evening from becoming a real life horror show.
Never carry items that could appear to be real weapons. Not only do you want to avoid scaring those around you, but you also want to avoid alarming law enforcement.
Be visible. Avoid areas that are not well lit and try to walk in high-traffic areas.
Don’t go alone. Travel in groups as much as possible. If you must travel alone, let a trusted friend or family member know where you are and who you are with.
Additionally, use the buddy system. Don’t go to a Halloween party without a good friend. Make a pact to arrive and leave together and keep tabs on each other.
Keep your phone on. Be sure your phone is fully charged before you go out for the night and make sure the volume is turned on in case a friend is trying to reach you. Don’t let your phone out of your sight—it could save you in case of an emergency.
Watch your drink. If you’re going to drink, do so responsibly. Never accept a beverage—beer, cocktail, not even water or soda—from someone you don’t know. Never leave your drink unattended.
Don’t drink and drive. Never accept a ride from someone that has been drinking, even if they’ve “only had a couple beers” or say they’re “only buzzed, not drunk.” Make a plan beforehand about how you are getting home. If you’re a designated driver, be extra careful on the roads.
Know a way out. If you are going to a party venue, familiarize yourself with the fire exits when you arrive so that you are prepared if an emergency evacuation occurs.
No uninvited guests. A Halloween safety tip of prime importance for college students is to never allow or invite strangers into your dorm or house.
Most importantly, trust your instincts. On Halloween or any other night if something “just doesn’t feel right” trust your gut instinct. Leave the party, don’t accept the drink, or just say no to whatever it is that’s making you uncomfortable. Your safety is more important than a party or possibly upsetting a friend.
Thank you Frank Waruszcak and DPS as a whole for these important tips! Have a good Halloween and stay safe Centenary.
