A pumpkin carved into a smiley face with shapes as the eyes and nose during Halloween as a lantern. Photo credit: Public domain/Wikimedia Commons.
Planning on having fun this Hallo-weekend? Plan to stay safe!
Halloween may have a different connotation in adulthood, but that does not mean that simple safety protocols should not be followed.
A 2019 study showed that pedestrian fatalities are 43% more likely on Halloween night versus a regular October evening. October also falls during the “Red Zone,” a period of time where 50% of all college sexual assaults occur. The rate of assault increases due to an uptick in partying, substance use and a lack of an established on-campus social network.
No matter what your Halloween plans are, here are some tips to stay safe this weekend.
Always have a way to get home.
Never drive a vehicle, bike, skateboard or E-scooter while under the influence of substances.
Before you leave your home, ensure you and your party have travel plans for getting back safely.
Uber and Lyft are great options for ride-share services. If you are traveling to an on or off-campus dormitory, multiple routes run by the KSU B.O.B. Busses run late into the night. Alternatively, coordinate among friends to assign a designated driver to abstain from substance use and drive the party home.
Know the signs of an overdose.
Overdoses on alcohol, narcotics or other illicit substances can occur with little warning. Keep an eye on your friends and know the signs of an overdose.
Signs of an overdose vary depending on the substance. General signs include pinpoint pupils, loss of consciousness, choking sounds, shallow breathing, blue coloring in the lips or nails, clammy skin and vomiting.
If you see an overdose occurring, call 9-1-1 immediately and render aid. Administer naloxone if you have a dose and perform CPR.
Georgia’s 9-1-1 Medical Amnesty Law grants legal protection to those administering care in medical emergencies, even if they are under the influence. If you are acting in good faith to save a person’s life, you cannot be prosecuted in civil or state court for substance violations.
If you want to receive naloxone and train to use it, KSU’s CARPE offers naloxone training. It is free for all students and staff, and you receive a free naloxone dosage and carrying case upon completion.
If someone is overdosing or in medical danger, always call 9-1-1.
Use the buddy system.
When attending a party or a gathering with a group, employ the buddy system to ensure everyone stays safe and leaves together.
Buddies can also help you protect your drinks, watch your bag and keep an eye on you if you plan on consuming substances.
Make sure your buddy stays safe during your festivities, and never leave without your buddy in sight.
Know your surroundings.
Always be cautious and knowledgeable about your surroundings when partaking in Halloween festivities.
Never leave a beverage unattended; instead, leave it with a trusted friend or cover it with your hand or a tight cloth. Practice caution when consuming alcohol from a punch bowl.
Keep a keen eye on party attendees. Do not be afraid to speak up or leave a situation if someone is making you feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
When walking the sidewalk, consider carrying a flashlight or wearing bright clothing to be visible to passing cars.
If you are a victim of harassment or assault, you are never at fault. You can find mental and legal support for sexual violence at the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE or visit www.rainn.org. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available at 1-800-799-7233.
Be cautious with costumes and carvings.
According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, many Halloween-related injuries occur due to pumpkin carving or costume malfunctions.
Pumpkin carving incidents account for approximately 44% of Halloween injuries. When carving pumpkins, practice caution when using sharp instruments. Wear gloves to protect your hands and goggles to protect your eyes. Keep a first-aid kit nearby in case of emergencies.
Be careful with your costume. Ensure that your outfit is breathable, moveable and does not impair your ability to walk or drive. If your costume inhibits your driving or walking abilities, consider removing or altering portions of it.
If you see something, say something.
The best safety advice is: if you see something, say something.
If you see something suspicious, trust your instincts. The LiveSafe app can put you in direct contact with the Kennesaw State University Police Department. If you need urgent assistance, call 9-1-1.
Halloween is fun no matter what age. By taking in these simple safety tips, you can keep your Hallo-weekend spooky and entertaining!
