By Lucia Sacerdoti
The University of Tampa students are celebrating Halloween in the city of Tampa. Therefore, the Campus Safety of UTampa has safety tips for those students who are going to be celebrating those festivities with questions answered by Richard Griner, assistant director of Campus Safety.
What are some safety tips for students?
- Stick with Your Group: Go out with friends and stay together. Use a buddy system to avoid getting separated.
- Limit Alcohol Intake: If you’re drinking, know your limits and keep an eye on your drink. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers, and never leave your drink unattended.
- Plan Your Route: Know where you’re going and how you’ll get there, especially if attending parties or events off campus. Plan a safe way to get home in advance.
- Choose Practical Costumes: Avoid masks or outfits that obstruct vision or movement, and wear comfortable shoes if you’ll be walking a lot. Consider including reflective elements if you’re out at night.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stick to well-lit, populated places and avoid shortcuts through alleys, parks, or secluded areas.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, leave. Listen to your gut and avoid situations that seem unsafe.
- Use Your Phone Smartly: Keep your phone charged and on hand. Enable location sharing with trusted friends or family, so they know your whereabouts.
- Stay Aware: Halloween can be chaotic, and pranks can go overboard. Stay alert to your surroundings, even if you’re having fun.
- Have Emergency Contacts: Save important numbers in your phone, including campus security, local police, and a few trusted contacts, in case you need help quickly.
- Be Cautious with Props: If your costume includes fake weapons or props, ensure they’re clearly not real. Avoid carrying anything that could be mistaken for a real weapon.
How can campus safety be a good resource for festive weekends like these?
- Download the Spartan SOS App: The app will seamlessly connect any UTampa community member with the Department of Campus Safety with a touch of a button — without having to remember Campus Safety phone numbers. It can be used to anonymously send tips directly to the proper department regarding maintenance, safety, and security concerns.
“Increased Campus Safety patrols in common gathering spots, dorm areas, and popular event locations, making our presence visible and reassuring for students,” Griner said.
He also said that the LASER (Law Abiding Students Ever Ready) Team and Campus Safety provide “on campus” safe rides for students traveling alone or at night, which is especially useful if students feel unsafe walking back to their dorms.
“We provide real-time alerts and communication to notify students of incidents providing important updates on any ongoing safety concerns,” stated Griner.
What can students avoid during these events?
- Overindulging in Alcohol or Drugs: Overconsumption can impair judgment, leading to risky decisions or vulnerability. It’s best to know your limits and stay aware.
- Accepting Drinks from Strangers: To avoid drink spiking, only accept drinks from trusted friends or pour your own. Never leave your drink unattended.
- Walking Alone Late at Night: Avoid going alone to or from events, especially in unfamiliar or dimly lit areas. Traveling in groups is always safer.
- Participating in Pranks or Vandalism: While pranks might seem fun, they can lead to unintended harm or damage to property and can even result in disciplinary action.
- Wearing Obstructive or Risky Costumes: Avoid costumes that block vision or mobility, and steer clear of anything sharp or heavy. Costumes with weapons can also cause misunderstandings with campus security.
- Posting Too Much Information on Social Media: Be cautious about sharing your location or party plans online, as it can attract unwanted attention.
- Driving Under the Influence: It’s especially important to avoid driving after drinking or using any substance. Consider using rideshares or arranging a designated driver.
- Ignoring Campus Safety Resources: Skipping out on resources like escorts, emergency hotlines (SOS app), or alerts can put students at unnecessary risk.
These tips can be referred not only by those who have been in UTampa longer but also for students new to The University of Tampa. Campus Safety wants to ensure students are in their best mindset regarding these festivities and stay safe at all times.