Halloween is a beloved time of year for college students, filled with costumes, parties, and plenty of treats. However, amid the fun and festivities, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Remember, at Millersville, we look out for each other; it is part of our culture. Whether you’re planning to attend a themed party or just hang out with friends, here are some essential Halloween safety tips to ensure your celebration at Millersville University is both safe and spooky!
1. Plan Your Costumes Wisely (and Respectfully)
When choosing a costume, consider practicality and safety. Ensure that your outfit is comfortable and allows for easy movement, especially if you’ll be walking around campus or attending parties. Avoid costumes that obstruct your vision or make it difficult to walk, such as oversized accessories or long capes. If you plan to wear a mask, consider opting for one with ample visibility to help you navigate safely.
Additionally, it’s essential to be respectful when selecting your costume. Avoid outfits that appropriate or stereotype cultures, as this can be offensive and disrespectful to others. Instead, consider costumes that celebrate creativity and fun without perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Engage with your friends about their costume choices and encourage an open dialogue about cultural sensitivity. This way, you can enjoy Halloween while fostering a respectful and inclusive environment for everyone on campus. Halloween can be equally EPPIIC and fun!
2. Stay Visible and Safe While Walking
As the days get shorter, visibility becomes a concern, especially if you’re walking after dark. Wear bright colors or reflective accessories to ensure you’re seen by others. Consider carrying a flashlight or using your phone’s flashlight feature when walking between buildings or to off-campus locations. Always stick to well-lit pathways, and don’t hesitate to use MUPD’s Police Escort Service or the SafeWalk option in the LiveSafe app if you feel uneasy about your surroundings. Be sure to have the LiveSafe app on your phone. Students can follow the MU Police Instagram account for Uber vouchers on Halloween.
3. Celebrate Responsibly
Halloween often comes with its share of parties and gatherings, but it’s important to drink responsibly if you choose to consume alcohol. Set a limit for yourself before you start partying and stick to it. Keep track of your drinks, and never leave your beverage unattended. If you’re going out with friends, establish a buddy system to ensure everyone gets home safely. Designate a sober friend to be your driver or use rideshare services if needed.
4. Know Your Limits
Halloween can be a busy night with numerous events happening on campus and in the surrounding areas. While it’s tempting to try to attend every party, listen to your body and know your limits. Make sure to get enough rest, stay hydrated, and take breaks when necessary. It’s better to enjoy a few events fully than to exhaust yourself trying to do it all.
5. Keep Your Living Space Secure
If you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, be mindful of security. Lock your doors and windows, and ensure that any guests you invite are someone you trust. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight and consider using a designated area for coats and bags. After the party, do a quick check to ensure nothing is left behind that might attract unwanted attention.
6. Be Mindful of Your Social Media Presence
In today’s digital age, sharing your Halloween adventures on social media is common. However, be cautious about what you post, especially regarding location tags and personal information. Avoid sharing sensitive details about your whereabouts, particularly if you’re attending parties at unfamiliar locations. Maintain privacy settings on your profiles and be mindful of the content you’re sharing.
7. Have Fun, But Stay Aware
Finally, the most important tip for Halloween is to have fun! Embrace the spirit of the holiday, enjoy the costumes, and indulge in all the treats. However, always stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to remove yourself from the situation.
No one has to do everything, but everyone has to do something. Halloween is a great opportunity to engage in both reactive and proactive “Green Dots” to ensure our campus remains a safe space that does not tolerate violence. A Green Dot is a behavior, choice, or action that promotes safety for everyone. The goal of the Green Dot program is to implement a bystander intervention strategy that prevents and reduces power-based personal violence. This includes sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.
What is your Green Dot? Will you choose to Direct, Delegate, or Distract? Make a plan before you go out. Think through some scenarios you might encounter and how you will handle them.
Halloween is a time for celebration, creativity, and community. By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your Halloween at Millersville University is not only enjoyable but also secure. So, put on your best costume, gather your friends, and get ready for a fun and safe Halloween!
A special “Halloween thanks!” to MUPD Chief Anders, Deputy Chief Bauman, and CHEP Director Margo Thowart for contributing to this post!