Halloween is a wonderful time of year: the leaves are changing, the weather is cooler, and you get to dress up to be someone else for a night. As you get older Halloween is more about the tricks and less about the treats. It is important to stay aware of your surroundings and stay safe throughout the night. Here are a few things you can do to help make sure you have a night of only the fun kind of spooky:
1. Make sure someone knows where you are at all times.
In today's age this is extremely easy. If you're leaving your house make sure someone who is with you as well as someone who is not with you knows where you're going. Even better turn on location tracking to share with that person! If anything happens to you they will know exactly where you are to either rescue you or tell the police.
2. Don't wear a mask.
No one enjoys seeing people in masks. Yes it is Halloween, but a mask can be dangerous. Someone can easily mistake you for someone else, or just be afraid by not knowing who is behind the mask and injure you. A costume isn't worth being injured.
3. Pour your own drinks.
As you age you learn that Halloween is really just about drinking in a costume. There are a lot of people out on Halloween and I promise not all of them have the best intentions. Pour your own drink and always keep your hand over it when not drinking. Better safe than sorry.
4. Have a plan.
There are parties everywhere Halloween night as well as the nights leading up to it. Do not just wing where you are going. Have a plan and stick to it, this will help ensure you get home safe.
5. DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE.
This cannot be stressed enough nor does it need an explanation. Just don't do it.
6. Try not to wear all black.
People cannot see you when driving if you are wearing all black. Wear at least one bright thing or put on a reflector when near a street. A reflector might not make you a cool kid but at least you'll be alive.
7. Do not go home with strangers.
Again, I don't really think an explanation is needed here. Just don't do it. You never know what someone's intentions are.
8. Don't blackout.
If you do happen to drink too much make sure you have a sober "mom" friend with you. They will make sure you get home safe and that no one will try anything.
9. Don't be afraid to say no or scream.
If you're in a bad situation and someone does not respond to you saying no, do not be afraid to scream. If you just say no casually bystanders may think you know this person and it no big deal. Make it known that you do not know whoever is trying to take you or do things to you. Someone will step in and help.
10. Just be aware of your surroundings.
You can still have fun while taking precautions and staying alert. Crazy people come out on Halloween, just know what is happening around you at all times.
