Between the pumpkin spice, Homecoming, Alumni Weekend, Greek God, Oktoberfest, vineyards, apple orchards, and, of course, Halloween, October is a month chockfull of exciting events in Binghamton. Not to mention the gorgeous foliage we're lucky to be surrounded by this season. Despite the amount of fun events happening in the area, there are a few major events that all students need to be aware and cautious of.

I’m sure everyone is conscious of the prominent gang activity that is prevalent in Downtown Binghamton. October is the month where these gangs hold initiation. Violence is present and widespread, and it's important that each student keeps this in mind while walking the streets of Binghamton. Unfortunately, in the past, there have been a number of instances when Binghamton University students have been assaulted. Dean of Students, April Thompson, and Assistant Dean of Students for Off-Campus Programs, Milton Chester, usually email all of their students to alert them when this time period is approaching. They do their best to keep their students as safe and aware as possible.

Here are some precautions to take while downtown.

Never walk alone.

This does not just apply to girls. It doesn’t matter how big, buff, or tough you may think you are, don’t be alone -- ever. You’re not stronger than a knife or a gun.

Take main, busy, and well-lit roads.

Yes, that alleyway may cut your travel time in half, but not if you never make it there. Make sure you stay in crowded locations that have streetlights or lit business signs. You don’t know what could be in that parking lot or down that dark road.

Have a check in buddy.

Whenever you are traveling somewhere, make a plan to contact another person to confirm you have arrived. Be sure sure you call or text them as soon as you arrive and keep them updated throughout your journey.

Be alert.

Seriously, though, be aware of your surroundings at all times. Take notice if you see something suspicious or think someone might be following you. If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, follow your instincts. Leave the area, call for help, do what you need to do.

Take a cab.

If you are traveling to a questionable section of the city, don’t risk it. Call a cab and get a ride. Even though we're fortunate enough to have a reliable bus system for our university, it's not a door-to-door service. There is still a likely possibility that you will need to walk from a bus stop to your destination. Your safety is worth much more than that three-dollar cab ride.

Lock all doors and windows.

This is a no-brainer regardless of where you are, but some still may forget. Take an extra second to double-check that you locked your car, bedroom, or apartment. Don’t leave your windows wide open, especially when you're leaving your residence.

Carry pepper spray.

I’m not joking at all. This may seem like a defenseless precaution, but in a time of need it could really pay off. Attach it to your keys for a time of emergency.

See something? Say something.

If you witness something suspicious, don’t be afraid to contact the authorities and report it. It’s better to have reported a situation that was not threatening than to have not reported anything and it winds up being something.

Honestly, these tips apply in all regions any time of year. By following these, you'll be able to keep your October easy, breezy, and most importantly, fun!