Doing Halloween Right

As a certain eerie night approaches, you might be busy shining your coffin, preparing yourself for the full moon, or making sure your broomstick is in peak condition. However, as scary as you may be, there are still things you should keep in mind as you venture out into the night:

  1. One of the best things you can do is travel in packs. As much fun as it may be roaming about by yourself, it's even more fun with a group, and you'll have backup in case anything goes awry. There’s safety in numbers.
  2. Know how to get back to your lair, and where you are. This is an important in case the need arises keep Google maps handy by dropping a location pin. It’s always good to know your surroundings.
  3. Don’t share cups. This is one of the easiest ways to spread germs. Whether you’re sick or not, you’re much more susceptible to becoming ill if you share your glass with others.
  4. Bring your phone and a form of identification! It’s a local Ann Arbor law that all citizens are required to carry a form of identification at all times. It’s also a safe practice to carry your cell phone in case of an emergency. Don't forget to put the numbers of the  emergency/non-emergency lines in your phone! And remember, you can download the Stay In The Blue App.
  5. Don’t take candy from strangers. It's generally not a good idea to accept unidentified things from strangers. If it's from a friend but you're still uncertain about what it is, ask! I can't count the number of times I've seen a person turn down the mystery cooler drink because they found out what was in it.
  6. Trust your instincts. Police don't get annoyed from someone who thinks they're in danger but turns out to be wrong. Medical Amnesty eliminates the risk in voluntarily calling the police or an ambulance due to intoxication of any kind for you or a friend.
  7. If you're organizing or attending the monster mash, have a sober monitor. It makes thing safer all-around, and you'll have a representative in case you need to deal with any type of emergency.
  8. Cultural appropriations are not appropriate Halloween costumes. Don’t tote an offensive costume, you’re hurting more people than you are entertaining. Expect Respect: give it, get it.

Most people won't have problems or encounter any of these issues. You won't either, if you make sure to stay safe and practice safe partying!

Here are some numbers to store in your phone incase the need arises:

  • Safe Ride: (734)-764-8000
  • UMich Police Dept (non-emergencies): 734-763-1131 or text 377911
  • Ann Arbor Police Dept/UMich Police Dept (emergencies): 911

 

Contributed by Paul Ligeti