With Halloween festivities approaching, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds students to take simple precautions that can help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable celebration. 

“Halloween is one of the most active times on campus,” says Kara Salce, a DPS sergeant, and DPS will be available to offer some safety tips. 

Public safety officers and staff will host a tabling event on Tuesday, Oct. 28, outside Sims Hall from 9 to 11 a.m. where they will hand out glow sticks, candy and snacks and provide friendly reminders to help students enjoy Halloween while staying safe. 

DPS officers ask students to keep these practical safety tips in mind: 

• Stay visible and aware. Stick to well-lit routes when walking at night. 

• Use the buddy system. Travel with friends and check in on one another throughout the night. 

• Secure your belongings. Keep valuables out of sight in vehicles or dorm rooms. Don’t leave bags, electronics or other items unattended at events. 

• Stay connected. Fully charge your cell phone before heading out for the evening. Download the Orange Safe App if you haven’t already—it connects you directly to safety escorts, emergency alerts and reporting tools. 

• Know your resources. DPS is available 24/7 for assistance and emergencies. 

Officer John Mazurowski encourages students to stop by the tabling event to meet and connect with officers.

“It’s a great opportunity to meet the students on a day-to-day basis outside of a normal call for assistance,” Mazurowski says. “Beneath the uniform, we are just normal people who are more than happy to have conversations and share stories, and we are here to build relationships with our students.”