Ahead of the 7 p.m. kickoff for the Sept. 26 football game at Milan Puskar Stadium, the West Virginia University Police Department is providing Mountaineer fans some important safety reminders.
- Make yourself visible. Though it’s a Gold Rush, there is no guarantee you will be seen walking to your car or home. Use flashlights and reflective gear so drivers can spot you. There are many portable options that can fit in a clear bag.
- If you choose to drink, please do so responsibly. Do not drive under the influence. Walk with a friend, if possible. If you are unable to drive, or cannot safely walk alone, an officer can help. Do not let impaired friends drive or walk home alone in the dark.
- Don’t accept drinks or illicit substances from others. People who suspect their drinks or other substances have been tampered with should notify someone — a friend, employee or law enforcement officer — immediately, seek medical help and, if possible, save the drink or other substance, report the incident to police, and provide its contents.
- If you see someone who may be in danger of a drug or alcohol overdose, please dial 911 to call for help. Under the University’s medical amnesty policy through the Campus Student Code and the laws of West Virginia, bystanders and those affected by drug or alcohol overdose may be safe from prosecution and may not face charges under the Campus Student Code if they seek medical assistance in an emergency. Always seek help when someone’s life may be at risk.
- Remember pedestrian and driver safety. Do not walk looking down at your phone or with headphones on. Use the crosswalks when possible. Drivers, make sure your headlights are on and your eyes always remain on the road. Be patient and go slowly when exiting the stadium area.
- Remember fire safety. Do not start a fire in prohibited locations, at prohibited times, or with prohibited items. Follow local laws and ordinances and remember that malicious burning — the burning of any materials or property on any public street, private street, right-of-way, alley, sidewalk, public or private driveway, or public or private parking lot — is both dangerous and a crime.
- As always, if you see something, say something. Call UPD at 304-293-3136 or make an anonymous report using the LiveSafe app.
Let’s work together to keep everyone safe as we cheer on the Mountaineers for the Big 12 home opener. Let’s Go!
For more information on UPD, visit our website, and follow us on Instagram, X, and Facebook. Download the LiveSafe app and turn on push notifications for direct and discreet two-way communication with police.
To receive information about emergencies and incidents on or near campus, register for or check your registration for the WVU Safety Notification System.