Halloween weekend is all about having fun and seeking the rushes of adrenaline from being spooked. Some people enjoy dressing up as scary characters, like monsters, while others dress like someone or something they aspire to be. Some skip the costumes altogether and participate in fun traditions, like trick-or-treating or carving pumpkins. Regardless, if you are going out or staying in, we still live in a world where you can’t be too cautious of your surroundings. So, here is some advice to help plan your Halloween night on or off campus.
- make a plan
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Designate a spot for your group to meet if you get separated. There is nothing worse than worrying about a lost friend. If you or your friend group are taking a Lyft or Uber, make sure to ask the driver who they are picking up and make sure they say your name loud and clear. People can be scary and dangerous, and Halloween is the perfect time for them to come out.
- walking apps
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If you are separated from your group and find it eerie to walk alone in the dark, don’t you worry! There are many walking buddies in the app store to keep you safe, and here are three you need to know.
Walksafe allows you to see what areas you need to avoid while walking at night. It will show where police report mugging, stabbings, shootings, etc.
This app notifies the police of your location when activated. But be aware, it is an Android app.
UrSafe has the “Follow Me” feature that allows certain contacts that you choose to see your location. But, in order for this to work, the app has to be on. It also has a panic button for the police and safe words you can set up in the setting if you are feeling uneasy.
In general, I highly recommend sharing your location with friends and family through the FindMy app on iPhones or Life360 for non-apple users.
- watch your booze & Your Candy
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Going to Halloween parties is a given, but you need to watch your drinks.
Unfortunately, college campuses are known for spiking (when someone puts drugs, alcohol or an unwanted substance in your beverage). Throw your drink away if you have stepped away from it in a crowded place (especially if it is an open cup), if you see a change in color, if the fizz is gone or fizzing too much, if the ice is sinking, and of course, if you see anything floating or sinking in your drink. Cover your drinks with some awesome products found here or, if you can’t afford to buy products, be cautious and cover your drinks with your hand or order drinks with a top/lid. If you are somewhere and the atmosphere feels off, don’t engage in drinking. Trust your instincts!
Of course, we all know the classic line, check your candy! Look for small holes in the packaging, for any opened and resealed wrapped, discoloration, homemade items and more.
- Practice self-defense
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If you are wearing a costume, get a prop to go with it. Some costumes come with nunchucks or swords. These can be used for self-defense if needed. You might be thinking, these are plain and boring or “I don’t want to carry something around all night”. But hey, you can get glow-in-the-dark spray paint to make it more fun and other crafts to make it fit your aesthetic. Plus, this could be the factor that increases your chances of safety!
I hope that you all have a wonderful and safe Halloween night and weekend. Make sure to think about these tips and always trust your gut! Have so much fun and Happy Halloween.