Priority for Halloween: Enjoy the festivities safely

The City of Madison is preparing for a safe and enjoyable Halloween celebration this weekend. But the combination of large crowds, fall weather and alcohol make it important for students to be aware of their own safety and the safety of others.

“Above all, we want students to have a blast on Halloween and also be safe,” says Dean of Students Luoluo Hong. “Students can do this by respecting people and property, and by remembering that they aren’t just members of the campus community but citizens of Madison, as well

“Be sure your friends have ‘got your back,’ and that you’ve got theirs,” she adds.

The Offices of the Dean of Students, along with the UW Police Department offer the following suggestions for students to navigate the upcoming weekend:

General safety

If you plan to go out, go with other people that you know and trust. Stay in a group and return home with the same people you went out with. Walk in well lit areas. Check in with each other throughout the night. Designate a meeting time and place in case you should get separated amid the crowds.
Accept beverages only from individuals that you know, observe the drink being prepared by the bartender, and never leave your drink unattended. And if you suspect if you have given a drug without your consent, go to the emergency room immediately.
Police will be stationed throughout State Street. If you need help assistance, find an officer or call 911. 911 calls from any pay phone are free.
Not everyone will be out on State Street for Halloween. Numerous other parties and events will take place around campus. For more information, call the Union’s Fashionably Late hotline at (608) 265-0505 or visit http://www.union.wisc.edu

Costumes

Select a costume that won’t inhibit or restrict your ability to run or protect yourself. If you are wearing a mask, make sure it is sufficiently ventilated and that your vision is not excessively impaired.
Some people may take advantage of being unrecognizable in a Halloween costume. Make sure that you are in an environment where you can easily get help or get away from someone who is threatening your safety or making you feel uncomfortable in any way.
Dress for the weather, regardless of your costume.
Keep in mind, weapons
such as guns, knives or swords
or realistic facsimiles of weapons as part of costumes, will draw the attention of law enforcement officers and may be confiscated or lead to a citation.
Remember, glass will not be allowed on State Street. The throwing of any object will result in police attention.

University Housing

Many residence halls will require students to pre-register weekend guests. Check with your house fellow before the weekend if you plan to have visitors.
Do not allow people into your residence hall that you do not know. Individuals who belong there have a key or have the ability to call their friend to let them in. If you do let someone in the building, you assume responsibility for that person and their behavior.
Lock your door even while sleeping or elsewhere on your floor or in the hall. Always carry your key when you leave your room.
Always carry photo identification and make sure your visiting guests carry your address and phone number with them.