With Halloween only a week away, both students and organizations on campus are gearing up for one final break before they buckle down for the long haul as final exams steadily approach. However, before students put their makeup on, Public Safety advises students to be careful.
“The biggest concern for the Department of Public Safety has, is the safety of our students. We would like them to always be aware of their surroundings. We want the student to enjoy Halloween and have fun, but be safe and responsible about it,” said Campus Relations Officer Corporal Jerry Garcia, who is in charge of informing faculty and students about campus safety and drug and alcohol awareness.
This Halloween, several campus organizations are holding special events for students on campus. Housing is holding a haunted house themed event and carnival at Cooper while a fashion show and pumpkin carving are being held at the University Center.
“The PRISM organization will also be offering ghost tours at Clement Hall. As far as off-campus parties go, different organizations plan Halloween parties each year so we do expect some, but we do not have a definite number,” Garcia said.
“We would like them to attend and participate in the functions that we have on campus, instead of being at an off-campus party where alcohol and drugs could be present.”
There are several safety tips students can follow at parties where drinking may be involved. Students that are 21 years or older should never accept a drink from anyone and always keep their drinks with them. Students are asked to also contact Public Safety or the Martin Police department for their safety if there is a problem.
“We ask that our students never drink and drive and never get into a vehicle when the driver has been drinking,” Garcia said.
Garcia also advises those who want to dress up for Halloween to not carry anything that could look like a real weapon. Following the buddy system is also good for students so if they start to feel uncomfortable in their surroundings, they can leave.
“Another good idea is to always carry your cell phone and keep a friend’s or roommate’s phone number available,” Garcia said.
“We have a great group of students here at UTM, and we want them to enjoy the festivities on Halloween, but we want them to be safe and responsible about it. We want them to be concerned, not only for their own safety, but the safety of all of our students.”
