Late into October, when the nights have grown long and our horror movie lists grow longer and last-minute spooktacular costume planning is in full swing. We are just a few days from Halloweekend. Without a doubt everyone is ready to get out and enjoy a spooky weekend with friends and family. As your official health and wellness guide, we wanted to provide you with a few tips to keep you and your friends safe during this festive season.
A quick reminder that WSU is a dry campus, and alcohol is not allowed on school property. We do not support nor endorse underage drinking. However, we recognize that Halloween is a popular time for students to drink.
Before You Embark
Get Bit by a Vaccine Not By a Vampire.
Haven’t gotten your flu shot or COVID-19 vaccine yet? Schedule an appointment at Health & Wellness Services by calling 507.457.5160.
Don’t Join the Walking Dead, Stay Home and Get Some Rest Instead.
Remember your health could affect others. If you’re feeling ill–it’s best to stay home, self-report, get tested, and rest instead.
Health & Wellness Services offers COVID-19 tests. Call the appointment line at 507.457.5160 or contact Ask-A-Nurse for a COVID-19 test.
Did you test positive off-campus? Fill out the self-report.
Keep Your Coven Exclusive.
Stick with your witches & warlocks and check in with them throughout the night. Make a plan for a designated meeting place and a safe ride home.
Place a Locking Spell on Your Lair by Saying “Lockatious-My-Placsis."
Brews and Crews Tips
Don’t Mix Elixirs and Brews.
As stated earlier, WSU is a dry campus, and we do not endorse nor support underage drinking. Mixing several types of alcohol and brews can cause you to feel the effects of alcohol faster and can lead to overconsumption. A good rule of thumb is to stick to one and remember to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.
Don’t Accept Potions From People You Don’t Know & Never Leave Your Brew Unattended.
Keep a watchful eye on your potions. Either brew them yourself or watch them be made to ensure they’re of excellent quality.
Avoid sharing drinks with others or participating in drinking games as it can increase your risk of overconsumption or catching a contagious disease, such as COVID-19.
Redbull Might Give You Wings But Mixing it With Boos Won’t Make You Feel Fang-tastic.
Energy drinks can lessen the depressant effects of alcohol, causing you to drink more than you intended. Because caffeine keeps you awake, it enables you to drink passed the point you would have otherwise passed out. This can lead to alcohol poisoning and overconsumption. Unfortunately, people may not realize you need help until it’s too late.
Don’t Drink & Fly
Make sure your phone is fully charged before you go out and you have your ringtone volume up. This ensures you’ll have enough battery to call for a safe broom ride home.
Never drink & drive or get into a vehicle with someone who has been drinking. Have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service. WSU shuttles run nightly until midnight to East Lake. You can also use Lyft to get home safely.
Squad Ghouls: Watch Out For Your Friends
If your friend is a ghostly white, get them to a safe space immediately. Recognize the signs of alcohol poisoning by remembering CUPS: Cold skin, Unconscious, Puking & Slowed Breathing.
It’s always better to bring a pack of friends with you to watch your back. You can request medical amnesty when helping someone get to safety. This policy covers the person who needs help and the one who seeks aid. This policy only covers those who are under 21.
Hosting a Gathering With Creatures Under 21 is a Violation of the Social Host Ordinance.
Make sure not to have brews available at parties with creatures under the age of 21, or you’ll pay a fine price.
Get Corny This Halloween When Asking For Consent.
Stay safe this halloweekend by wrapping your candy before enjoying the treat.
Remember FRIES. No, not the fast-food! Consent is: Freely given, Reversible, Informed, Enthusiastic & Specific. Don’t forget intoxicated people can’t give consent.
Confidential SANE exams are available at Health & Wellness Services from M-F 7:30AM-4PM. These exams are prioritized and walk-ins will be accommodated, as possible. The sooner a survivor comes to seek care, the better, however you can come in up to 5 days after the incident. Given the length of the exam, it is recommended to come as early in the day as possible. To schedule an appointment, call 507.457.5160 or walk-in to IWC 222.
Trust Your Wolverine Instincts and Howl For Help.
If something doesn’t feel right, leave the situation. Your safety is much more important than staying at a party or hurting someone’s feelings. Some numbers you can call are:
- 911 for emergency services
- 507.457.5555 for Campus Security
- 507.457.2956 for WSU Confidential Advocate, M–F 8AM–4:30PM
- 507.452.4453 for Advocacy Center of Winona, 24/7
Don’t Let In All The Cryptids You Meet.
You never know if they will look out for your best interests. If something or someone seems off, kick them out. Once the mask comes off, you may not know who is hiding underneath. Do not let someone you do not know or trust into your dorm or home.
Know Your Surroundings and Plan a Jack-o-lantern Lit Route Home.
Now that you know all our fang-tastic safety tips, you’re equipped for a successful night filled with spooky goodness.
