Halloween at Carolina feels special. You might see a group of students dressed up as the campus squirrels, scurrying around and perching on planters, or other creative punny or campus-themed costumes in the Franklin Street crowds. It’s a holiday many of us see as a highlight of the fall semester.
But before the fun begins, it’s worth thinking about how to keep yourself and your friends safe and ready for whatever the night brings.
Trick #1: Ghouls Stick Together
When it’s dark and crowded outside, it can be easy to get lost. Keep yourself and your friends safe.
- Have a “swim buddy,” a person always with you. They look out for you and vice versa. Don’t let this person out of your sight.
- Share your location. The Carolina Ready safety app is one way to share your location with friends – and can connect you to emergency help if needed.
- Choose a central meeting place in case anyone gets lost.
Trick #2: Protect You and Your Boo
Keep you and your boo safe with free barrier protection (condoms) found in locations around campus:
- Carolina Union bathrooms, in wall dispensers on the 2nd floor of the main building
- Student Stores Pharmacy – third floor of Student Stores
- Campus Health – lab and clinic rooms
- Student Wellness – SASB North on the lower level
Trick #3 Safer spirits
If you choose to drink or use substances, stay safer.
- Know the source. Who gave the drink or substance to you? Where did it come from?
- Stay hydrated. Drink water throughout the night.
- Eat before you go out. Consider packing snacks.
- Know your limits. And stick to them.
- Have a designated driver or call a cab.
Trick #4: Costume with Care
Costumes are a big part of Halloween fun, AND it’s important to make sure yours doesn’t cross the line. Go for something funny, punny, clever, or just plain iconic without putting anyone down. You can be creative and respectful.
Trick #5: A Protective Potion
The first step in any emergency is to always call 911. However, when someone is experiencing an opioid overdose, having naloxone available may save their life.
- Naloxone temporarily reverses opioid drug overdoses
- Naloxone is available free of charge, without a prescription and anonymously at Campus Health Pharmacy, Student Wellness, and Student Stores Pharmacy during open hours.
- Remember that Carolina has a Medical Amnesty policy, meaning you won’t get in trouble for calling for help in a substance-related emergency.
Trick #6: Don’t Let Your Battery Die
Make sure your phone is fully charged before you go out so that you can communicate with others in case of an emergency.
- Bring a portable charger if you have one.
- Ensure your friends’ phones are also fully charged.
Trick #7: Snacks before Spells
Nothing’s scarier than the sound of a growling stomach. Stay fueled throughout your trick-or-treating fun by eating a snack or light dinner.
- Eat protein. Either eat a protein bar or a roll-up with turkey or ham slices.
- Pack a filling snack for later. Trail mix is a great option, offering protein, carbs and sugar – the perfect mix to keep you fueled.
- Listen to your body. Your body knows when you don’t have enough fuel, so pay attention to it.
Trick #8: See Something, Say Something
Halloween is meant to be spooky – not suspicious! If you see something feels off:
- Even small interruptions can help prevent harm. Ask a question, change the subject, spill a drink, or pull someone aside.
- Call for help by dialing 911 or using a blue emergency call box.
- You can also take a training on ways to recognize and prevent harm.
Halloween at Carolina is about connection, creativity, and community. A little planning, respect, and care go a long way toward making it a weekend that’s memorable for the right reasons. Have fun, stay safe, and look out for each other, Tar Heels.