As Halloween approaches, the WVU Police Department is encouraging you to celebrate safely, whether you’re in costume or not.
Stick together. No matter your plans, travel with a group and stay with them throughout the night. Don’t let anyone wander off alone, and make a plan ahead of time for how everyone will get home safely — like Uber or Lyft, a designated driver, taxi, or walking together.
Stay aware of your surroundings. If you’re walking or driving around Morgantown, be alert. Pedestrians should use marked crosswalks, avoid distractions like phones, and stick to well-lit areas. Drivers should slow down, stay vigilant, and yield to people crossing the street.
If you’re drinking, do so responsibly:
- Skip drinking games. They can escalate quickly.
- Stick to one type of alcohol throughout the night.
- Eat before and while you drink.
- Know your limit, set a drink count, and keep track.
- Never leave your drink unattended, and don’t accept drinks from someone you don’t know or drinks that you didn’t see being made.
Look out for one another. If someone appears to be experiencing a drug or alcohol overdose, don’t hesitate. Call for help immediately. Under medical amnesty laws and the WVU Campus Student Code, bystanders and those affected by drug or alcohol overdose may be safe from prosecution and may not face charges if they seek medical assistance in an emergency. In a crisis, always call for help. Every minute counts.
Your well-being matters. WVU is committed to the safety of every Mountaineer, and by keeping these tips in mind, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for yourself and your community.
Download the LiveSafe app and turn on push notifications for direct and discreet two-way communication with police. To receive alerts about emergencies and incidents on or near campus, register for the WVU Safety Notification System.