Fall brings cooler weather, falling leaves, and one of the most fun holidays of the year: Halloween. Long considered a day for little kids, these days you can find all ages dressing up and enjoying this spooky season.
Tricks and treats aside, some Halloween traditions can be a bit dangerous. Remember these safety tips this October 31 and have a safe and fun Halloween!
- Choose your Halloween costume wisely. Wear something that you can move in and make sure masks and wigs don’t accidentally cover your eyes, impairing your vision.
- Never carry fake weapons or items that could appear to be a weapon. Not only do you want to avoid scaring those around you, but you also want to avoid alarming the police.
- 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.
- 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, or 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.” If you’re a designated driver, be extra careful on the roads.
- Decorate safely. Are you the party host? Make sure valuables and breakables are put away safely. Light your jack o’ lanterns with glow sticks instead of real candles, which are a fire hazard. Make sure there is a clear path to an exit.
- 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 apartment.
- 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.