The Chief of Security offers advice for a safe Halloween

Halloween Safety//

By Sullivan McGee

With Halloween approaching, Hood Campus Safety encourages caution to both students and community members.

For trick-or-treating, including the Safe Harvest in the Hood community, Chief of Security Thurmond Maynard suggests traveling in groups and to always check their candy to make sure that it has not been altered, opened or damaged.

“Make sure that if they see something, say something–to dial 911 if they feel as though they’re being followed or bothered,” Maynard said.

Additionally, Maynard advises students to be respectful when trick-or-treating in local neighborhoods. “Not everybody celebrates Halloween…you don’t need to be banging on doors. Knock once or twice, after that you can move on to the next house,” Maynard said.

For Halloween parties, Maynard urges awareness around alcohol. Knowing where your drink is and where it came from are reliable ways to stay safe.

“When in doubt, just don’t partake in drinking alcohol and partying,” Maynard said. “We want people to establish good, safe, healthy relationships and not end up making bad choices and decisions.”

Students can always contact Campus Safety or a trusted adult if they are bothered by anyone.

Maynard said that there shouldn’t be any problems if students wear costumes to class on Halloween so long as they dress appropriately. Students are also allowed to decorate their dorm room doors if they respect those who don’t celebrate Halloween.

Finally, Maynard encouraged students to have fun, but treat the campus and the people on it with respect. “This is your house, this is your home–Hood’s campus,” Maynard said.  “Just make sure you respect your house, respect your neighbors…This is for everyone.”

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