Learn how to Stay Protected (And Nonetheless Have Enjoyable) This Halloween | BU Today

From the second the primary leaf falls on campus, the query hits you: What ought to I be for Halloween this 12 months? For weeks to come back, costume concepts begin flying, group plans come collectively, Pinterest boards are made, and the anticipation for a weekend filled with foolish enjoyable begins to construct.

But with all the joy and power surrounding Halloween, it’s simple to miss one vital facet: security. Following only a few easy ideas can go a good distance and ensuring the weekend stays enjoyable for everybody. 

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Tip #1: Know the Good Samaritan Policy

Whether your Halloween plans contain events, costumes, or exploring the town, it’s vital to look out for your self and on your mates. Boston University’s Good Samaritan Policy encourages college students to hunt assist in the case of emergencies with out the worry of disciplinary motion for alcohol or drug use. 

If you or somebody you’re with is in hassle, you possibly can name for assist with out worrying about getting in hassle. Instead of going through sanctions, all college students concerned could also be requested to finish an academic or counseling program on campus. The coverage applies to BU college students of all ages, whether or not the scenario happens on or off campus.

Not positive what counts as an emergency? Signs of an alcohol emergency may embody vomiting, confusion, issue staying awake, seizures, and gradual or irregular respiratory. 

If you or a buddy wants assist:

• Call for assist instantly — BUPD: 617-353-2121 or 911
• Stay with the individual till assist arrives
• Lay them on their aspect, not their again
• Skip the meals, drinks, or chilly showers—these could make issues worse

If you’re on campus and need assistance quick, search for a Blue Light emergency name field, which supplies you with a direct line to a BUPD police dispatcher once you press the button.

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Tip #2: Be Alert to Drink Spiking

It occurs quick. You set your drink down for one second to say hello to somebody, and earlier than you notice it, it’s been spiked. Whether you’re at a home celebration or an occasion downtown, staying conscious of your environment and maintaining a tally of your drink always is essential for a secure night time out. 

Drink spiking (often known as being “roofied”) happens when somebody slips a drug into your drink to impair your management. If your imaginative and prescient blurs, the room begins spinning, otherwise you get up with no reminiscence of what occurred, search assist instantly.

To shield your self and your pals:

• Keep your drink in hand always
• Don’t settle for drinks you didn’t see poured or opened
• Use drink covers you probably have them
• Check for adjustments in coloration, cloudiness, or bubbles earlier than sipping
• Trust your intestine—if one thing feels off, it most likely is

If you imagine you will have been drugged, name 911 or go to the closest hospital emergency room as quickly as doable. You can even contact the Boston University Police Department at 617-353-2121. BUPD is out there 24/7, and their help aligns with BU’s Good Samaritan Policy. 

You can even report any on or off-campus drink spiking on to BUPD, and you may attain out to the Sexual Assault Response & Prevention Center (SARP) for extra help and assets!

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Tip #3: Know the Law – Drinking Age & Public Alcohol Rules

If your Halloween plans contain social occasions, needless to say the authorized consuming age in Massachusetts is 21, and it’s thought of against the law to own, transport, or eat alcohol when you’re underage. Law enforcement is on excessive alert all through the weekend, significantly in areas surrounding pupil neighborhoods and occasions.

Even when you’re 21:

• No open containers in public (streets, T stations, buses—even in a paper bag)
• Keep your ID with you
• If a celebration feels sketchy or overcrowded, depart along with your group
• Avoid strolling alone late at night time—seize a buddy or take the BU Shuttle or an Uber

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From the second lessons finish on Friday, October 31, Halloweekend kicks off in full swing. Just bear in mind: with all of the enjoyable comes duty. Make sensible decisions, look out for your self and your pals, and don’t let peer strain take precedence over your security!

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