Halloween is notorious for being the largest holiday celebration on college campuses. However, in the fun and mystery, some college students can lose sight of safety and wind up in a horror story of their own. With the help of TCU police officer George Steen, here are a few tricks and treats to help ward off the weekend scaries.

Keep your skull and bones on a swivel

It’s always been a rule of thumb to stay aware of your surroundings, but with the rise of social media, many people constantly have their eyes glued to their phones. Students put time and effort into their costumes, so it is only natural that many want to share their alter egos with the world. However, it is imperative to stay aware of your surroundings when walking between locations or riding in a car. Never walk down the dark alley shortcut. Steen recommends that anyone, especially women, take a self-defense class at some point in their young adult life. “Two things you need to learn: the hammer fist and the knee strike,” said Steen. “What’s your goal? Escape. Get away. And run.” If you find yourself in danger, “Scream. Loud. Very loud.”

Poisoned Potion

For those participating in the Halloween festivities, it is important to stay mindful of what you consume. Whether or not you choose to drink alcohol, always keep an eye on your cup. With large crowds, it becomes easy for someone to potentially slip something into an unattended drink. Do not accept a beverage you did not watch get made. “Never drink from the igloo,” Steen said. “And don’t drink the jungle juice.” You don’t want to take a sip of the poisoned potion.

 

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Do not drink and fly a broomstick

With eagerness and anticipation, partygoers want to get to places fast. It may seem like a drag to wait for a ride, leaving some to consider getting behind the wheel – which is perfectly acceptable if and only if the individual is sober. “I worry most about students getting in a car crash [while intoxicated],” said Steen. He emphasized that students should always call a rideshare (Uber, Lyft, Fetii) or a trusted designated driver.  There is never a reason to drink and drive.

A trusted ghoul or goblin

Although characters such as Michael Myers, Freddy Krueger and Jason Voorhees are fictional, there are different villains students must look out for.

Steen stressed the importance of celebrating with people you trust. “We always taught the stranger danger thing,” he said. “[But] no, it’s a family member. It’s a friend. It’s somebody professional. You have to be sure that you trust who you are with.” Surround yourself with people who have your best intentions in mind and look out for those around you.

Knowing your magical resources

As always, students at TCU can count on the school for help. Officer Steen and the rest of the TCU Police Department are on call to aid any students in need. “If you see something, hear something or something occurs in your sight, just pick up and call the four 7’s,” said Steen. “We can go off campus if needed. We’re here 24/7 as a resource. [We] may not be the one you want, but I assure you, in the long run, we’re going to do what is in the best interest of the student.” “Halloweekend” is filled with frights and fun, but people take on an alter ego once the mask comes on. Trust your senses, trust your gut and have a safe and spooky Halloween.