Halloween is right around the corner – ‘tis the season for spooks, screams, and everything in between. This holiday is all about tricks and treats but don’t get tricked this Halloween. If you’re anything like me, you’ll be stuck in class Halloween night. But if you’re not, follow these tips to keep you safe. 
 

• Dress for the weather. I sound like your mom, I know. A winter coat can ruin any cute outfit. Who wants that? Not me, that’s for sure. But fall in Chicago is no joke. It’s brutal out there and you don’t want to be stuck wandering the city without a jacket. Seriously. No outfit is worth losing the feeling in your toes.  

• Keep your phone charged. This is important, especially if you’ll be out and about the whole night. Make sure your phone is fully charged before you go out, or make sure to bring some type of charger with you! If you lose your friends or find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, your phone can be your ticket out.  

• Watch your drink. I’m sure you’ve heard this time and time again, but watch your drink. Stay wary and keep your eyes on it. Don’t put it down, walk away, and then pick it up again. You don’t know who has touched your drink. And if you do put it down, no worries – just go get a new one. Remember to also not accept drinks from people you don’t know. When it doubt, throw it out, guys. 

• Hydrate. This is simple, but necessary. This is my #1 rule for going out. Whenever you know you’ll be drinking, drink water. Not only will it save you from a nasty hangover in the morning, it will also help your body fight off blood alcohol level spikes. 

• Know your limits. Listen to your body. I know it’s hard to put a stop to the fun, but your tolerance will eventually reach its breaking point. Keep yourself safe by keeping yourself aware. But I get it. Accidents happen. If this is the case, make sure you’re with a group of people you trust.  

• Listen to your gut. Always, always, always trust your gut. I cannot stress this enough. Whether you’re at a party, a bar, or out in the city and you feel uncomfortable, get out. Grab a friend, call an Uber, and get yourself in an environment where you feel safe.  

• Stay home! I know, who would want to stay home on Halloween? It doesn’t like the most exciting option, but it can be! Skip the cold weather and the effort of getting ready and have a movie night! 

• Don’t take rides from strangers. I know that this sounds obvious, but it still needs to be put out there. Apps like Uber and Lyft will be especially busy Halloween night, which means randoms will be on the prowl asking if you need a ride. Don’t take the ride. Call a friend, call a taxi, or get to a safe place to wait for an Uber or Lyft. 

• Don’t walk alone at night. I saved the most important tip for last. Never, ever walk alone at night. Especially on Halloween night, or any holiday night for that matter. The streets will be crawling with people, and not everyone will have your best intentions in mind. If you must walk, make sure to buddy up and stick with your group – no matter what.  

It may seem like a lot, but all of these tips are essential to keep you safe on Halloween night. Halloween is a time to have fun and dress up. Whether you’re at a party, a bar, or out and about with friends…make sure to do it safely, please! Remembers these tips when you’re planning your Halloween festivities.  

In the case of an uncomfortable or potentially dangerous situation, please remember these important resources and never be afraid to reach out for help.  

• Blue emergency buttons located around campus. 
• CCC’s Security Escort program. Call 312-369-SAFE (7233) between 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. on campus for a ride between different locations on campus. 
• Chicago Metro Rape Crisis Hotline (YWCA): 888-293-2080 

• National Sexual Assault Hotline 1-800-656-4673 
• Porchlight Counseling Services – Counseling at no charge for individuals assaulted in college 
• And of course, 9-1-1 or the non-emergency number 3-1-1