What’s Up for Halloween?

As you may know, the city of Madison has gone to great lengths to prepare for a safe and enjoyable Freakfest celebration on Saturday, Oct. 27.

If you’re a continuing student, you know the drill. But if you are a new student, here are some thoughts to remember as you celebrate and have fun.

If you plan to attend, I encourage you to go out in a group, cooperate with law enforcement and security personnel, and place limits on your alcohol consumption. If you are intoxicated, you place yourself at a much greater risk for injury, unwanted sexual contact or a citation from police.

No glass will be allowed on State Street and throwing an object of any kind will result in your arrest. Please leave when police signal that the event has ended. Keep in mind that nonresidents will not be allowed in University Housing residence halls on Oct. 26-27.

You’re free to dress as you choose, but I believe that racist, crude and culturally insensitive and/or offensive costumes speak volumes about the people wearing them.

Finally, remember that the anonymity you may feel from wearing a mask or costume does not negate your rights or responsibilities as a Madison resident or a UW-Madison student.

Students found to be responsible for engaging in criminal behavior that impacts other members of the university community — on or off campus — can face sanctions up to and including suspension or expulsion. Information about criminal behavior by students from other colleges or universities will be forwarded back to their own campus student affairs staffs for possible adjudication.

Have fun and stay safe,

Lori M. Berquam
Dean of Students

Halloween Safety tips

  • If you plan to go out, go out with other people that you know and trust. Stay in a group and return home with the same people you went out with. Walk in well lit areas. Check in with each other throughout the night. Designate a meeting time and place in case you should get separated amid the crowds.
  • Realize that alcohol influences decision making and judgment. Discuss what your limits are and then how to honor those decisions about the amount and type of alcohol you consume.
  • If you accept a beverage from someone, make sure that you know them, you've observed the drink being prepared and that you never leave it unattended. Exercise caution in any public setting with any beverage.
  • Don't wear a costume that inhibits or restricts your ability to see or run. Some people may take advantage of being unrecognizable in a Halloween costume. Make sure that you are in an environment where you can easily get help or get away from someone who is threatening your safety in any way.
  • Dress for the weather, regardless of your costume.
  • Keep in mind, no weapons, or realistic facsimiles of weapons, will be allowed by Madison Police as part of costumes.
  • Remember, no glass will be allowed on State Street. The throwing of any object will result in police attention.
  • The University Residence Halls have a no guest policy. If you reside in the halls, let your friends know if they come to visit they need to make plans to stay somewhere besides University Housing.
  • Do not allow people into your residence hall that you do not know. Individuals who belong here have a key. Letting in people you do not know puts the entire community at risk.
  • Lock your door even while sleeping or elsewhere on your floor or in the hall. Always carry your key when you leave your room.
  • Always carry photo identification and make sure your friends carry identification and phone numbers with them in case they become incapacitated for any reason.
  • Don't drink and drive. There are a variety of transportation services, including the campus bus (Safe Bus), the SafeWalk/SafeRide at 262-5000 and the local taxi services.
  • Police will be stationed throughout State Street. If you observe suspicious or criminal behavior or need immediate assistance, find an officer or call 9-1-1. 9-1-1 calls from any pay phone are free.
  • Honor everyone's right to live and feel safe in the Madison community, including fellow students, campus neighbors and downtown business owners. Look out for your friends and fellow students. If someone is in trouble, reach out and help them.