If you surveyed college students across the nation about what their favorite holiday is, chances are a majority would probably choose Halloween as their favorite. With Halloween falling on a Friday this year, it’s also safe to assume the college students who love the holiday are probably even more excited than usual. I mean, what’s more fun than dressing up and going out all weekend?
If you are planning on going out this Halloween, remember these tips to make sure your night is both fun and safe. Firstly, let’s talk about alcohol. ETSU is a dry campus, so you can’t have alcohol. But if you find yourself in a place where you’re drinking, make sure you’re doing it safely. Watch your drink, and don’t accept open drinks from strangers. This will heavily reduce the risk of your drink being spiked.
Also, know your limits. Don’t overdo it just because you’re having fun. Furthermore, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), one person in the U.S. dies from a drunk driving crash every 42 minutes. In 2023, the NHTSA also reported that the highest percentage of drunk drivers was 21-to-24 24-year-olds. Drunk driving is entirely preventable, and it’s as simple as having a designated driver or calling an Uber. Even if you’ve only had one drink, it’s still driving under the influence, and you should avoid it at all costs.
If you’re going out to a party or to a bar/club on Halloween with friends, a buddy system should be a non-negotiable part of whatever activities you get up to. According to the Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network (RAINN), more than 50% of college sexual assaults occur in August, September, October or November. A buddy system is essential for going out. Not only do you have more fun with your friends, but you’re also protecting them from sexual assault, having their drink spiked, or getting blackout drunk, and drunk driving. Knowing all this, what do you do if you end up in a sticky situation? Who do you call, and if you’re doing something illegal, will you get in trouble if you’re calling for help? There are several ways you can get help if you need it this Halloween.
Firstly, having a sober friend or family member located nearby on speed dial can help if you need a ride home or feel unsafe. If you’re on campus, you can reach ETSU public safety by calling (423) 439-4480 on your cellphone. If you’re off campus, call 911. In the state of Tennessee, the Good Samaritan Law protects those who provide emergency assistance to someone from the threat of civil liability, so keep that in mind. Remember, you can have the time of your life while also being the safest person at the party.
