Halloween

How to Stay Safe (and Still Have Fun) This Halloween

Three tips every BU student should know

From the moment the first leaf falls on campus, the question hits you: What should I be for Halloween this year? For weeks to come, costume ideas start flying, group plans come together, Pinterest boards are made, and the anticipation for a weekend full of silly fun begins to build.

But with all the excitement and energy surrounding Halloween, it’s easy to overlook one important aspect: safety. Following just a few simple tips can go a long way to making sure the weekend stays fun for everyone. 

Tip #1: Know the Good Samaritan Policy

Whether your Halloween plans involve parties, costumes, or exploring the city, it’s important to look out for yourself and for your friends. Boston University’s Good Samaritan Policy encourages students to seek help in the case of emergencies without the fear of disciplinary action for alcohol or drug use. 

If you or someone you’re with is in trouble, you can call for help without worrying about [either of you] getting in trouble. Instead of facing sanctions, all students involved may be asked to complete an educational or counseling program on campus. The policy applies to BU students of all ages, whether the situation occurs on or off campus.

Not sure what counts as an emergency? Signs of an alcohol emergency could include vomiting, confusion, difficulty staying awake, seizures, and slow or irregular breathing. 

If you or a friend needs help:

• Call for help right away—BUPD: 617-353-2121 or 911
• Stay with the person until help arrives
• Lay them on their side, not their back
• Skip the food, drinks, or cold showers—those can make things worse

If you’re on campus and need help fast, look for a Blue Light emergency call box, which provides you with a direct line to a BUPD police dispatcher when you press the button.

Tip #2: Be Alert to Drink Spiking

It happens fast. You set your drink down for seconds to say hi to someone, and before you realize it, it’s been spiked. Whether you’re at a house party or an event downtown, staying aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye on your drink at all times is crucial for a safe night out. 

Drink spiking (also known as being “roofied”) occurs when someone slips a drug into your drink to impair your control. If your vision blurs, the room starts spinning, or you wake up with no memory of what happened, seek help immediately.

To protect yourself and your friends:

• Keep your drink in hand at all times
• Don’t accept drinks you didn’t see poured or opened
• Use drink covers if you have them
• Check for changes in color, cloudiness, or bubbles before sipping
• Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is

If you believe you have been drugged, call 911 or go to the closest hospital emergency room as soon as possible. You can also contact the Boston University Police Department at 617-353-2121. BUPD is available 24/7, and their support aligns with BU’s Good Samaritan Policy. 

You can also report any on- or off-campus drink spiking directly to BUPD, and you can reach out to the Survivor Advocacy, Response & Prevention (SARP) for additional support and resources!

Tip #3: Know the Law—Drinking Age & Public Alcohol Rules 

If your Halloween plans involve social events, keep in mind that the legal drinking age in Massachusetts is 21, and it is considered a crime to possess, transport, or consume alcohol if you’re underage. Law enforcement is on high alert throughout the weekend, particularly in areas surrounding student neighborhoods and events.

Even if you’re 21:

• No open containers in public (streets, T stations, buses—even in a paper bag)
• Keep your ID with you
• If a party feels sketchy or overcrowded, leave with your group
• Avoid walking alone late at night—grab a friend or take the BU Shuttle or an Uber

From the moment classes end on Friday, October 31, Halloweekend kicks off in full swing. Just remember: with all the fun comes responsibility. Make smart choices, look out for yourself and your friends, and don’t let peer pressure take priority over your safety!