As Halloween approaches, excitement builds for costumes and spooky fun, but safety should be top of mind for everyone on campus while going out for both “Halloweekends” this week and next.
IU Police Department tends to see an increase in alcohol-related calls, especially illegal possession and consumption by a minor, according to IUPD Public Information Officer Hannah Skibba. She said there is usually a spike in medical calls during Halloween due to high levels of intoxication.
According to Skibba, from Oct. 24 – Nov. 7, 2021, there were three reported cases of operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OVWI) and 52 reported instances of illegal possession or consumption. During the same time in 2022 there were two reported OVWIs and 33 cases of illegal possession or consumption. In 2023, there were two OVWIs and 35 cases of illegal possession or consumption.
In 2022, two Bloomington teens were charged in connection to a stabbing after a Halloween party.
Despite the surge in intoxicated driving and crime during this period, students can still find ways to be safe and have fun.
Drink responsibly
It is important to know your limit, stay hydrated, not leave your drink unattended and to have a safe plan when going out this Halloween.
Drinking water between alcoholic beverages can help you stay hydrated and avoid overconsumption. Eating plenty of food or candy can also help.
Have safe transportation planned before going out. IUPD cautions against drinking and driving and recommends using ride share services or IU Ride.
IU Ride offers free rides for IU students and employees within Bloomington city limits. It operates from 8 p.m. to 1:45 a.m. Rides can be requested through the IU Ride app.
Costumes
Make sure that if you are wearing a mask it does not impair your vision. Also make sure to avoid carrying fake weapons as they can scare people around you and alert the police. Instead, consider alternative ways to stay true to your costume without carrying a fake weapon.
Bystander Intervention
Being a good friend and bystander is really important for Halloween. Skibba said there are three parts to bystander intervention — notice, decide and act.
“When you notice a crime decide whether you want to step up and intervene, after that, act on the situation and call 9-1-1," Skibba said.
Call or text 911 in case of emergency. Students and faculty can also use the Rave Guardian app to make reports and stay anonymous. Skibba said extra officers will be on duty, but they can’t be everywhere all the time.
People can contact IUPD’s non-emergency line at 812-855-4111 and the Bloomington Police Department non-emergency line at 812-339-4477.
Indiana law protects you from arrest in medical emergencies
“Halloween is scary but calling the police should not be one of them,” Skibba said.
The Indiana Lifeline Law provides immunity for those under the age of 21 from arrest and prosecution of public intoxication, minor possession, minor consumption and minor transport to persons who seek medical assistance for a person suffering from an alcohol-related health emergency.
To receive full immunity, a person must provide their full name and other information requested by law enforcement, remain on the scene with the person in need of assistance and cooperate with the authorities.
A list of resources is available here if you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment or abuse.
More information on the period commonly known as the “Red Zone” can be found here.
