Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun: A Guide to Safe Drinking This Halloween
As Halloween approaches, Thunderwolves are gearing up for a night of frightening fun, costumes, and parties. While this spooky season is all about building memories, it’s crucial to keep the night safe, especially when alcohol is involved. Whether you're a seasoned partygoer or just looking to enjoy the festivities, keeping safety in mind can make all the difference.
With a little bit of caution, you can make sure your Halloween is all treats and no tricks. Here are some simple tips to keep your night from turning into a nightmare.
1. Know When to Boo-ze, and When to Stop
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the night, but drinking too much too fast can leave you feeling like a zombie before the party even gets going. Sip your drinks slowly and mix in water or a non-alcoholic beverage. No one will notice if you alternate with soda or juice! Remember, Halloween isn’t a race pace yourself so you can enjoy the whole night, not end it early by overdoing it.
2. Keep Hydrated: Don’t Turn into a Mummy!
Parties can be a whirlwind of dancing, socializing, and sipping on spooky cocktails. But beware, alcohol dehydrates you, and if you’re not careful, you’ll wake up feeling as dry as a mummy the next day. To avoid this, drink a glass of water between each alcoholic drink. It’s a simple trick to keep you feeling good all night long and prevent that dreaded next-day slump.
3. No Tricks, Just Treats: Eat Before Drinking
Think of drinking on an empty stomach like trick-or-treating without the candy, just not a good idea! Just like vampires need blood, your body needs food before you start drinking. Eating a solid meal beforehand will help absorb the alcohol and keep your energy up throughout the night. It’ll also stop you from fading away like a ghost before the fun is over.
4. Keep an Eye on Your Potion
When it comes to drinks, treat them like potions, know exactly what’s in them. Don’t accept a drink you didn’t see being poured, and never leave your drink unattended while you’re dancing or chatting with friends. The last thing you want is an unexpected ingredient in your witch’s brew, so keeping an eye on your potion is key.
5. Have a Way to Escape
The scariest part of Halloween shouldn’t be trying to figure out how to get home. Before the night begins, make sure you have an exit plan. Whether it’s a designated driver, public transit, or a rideshare like Uride, Uber or Lyft, having a way home that doesn’t rely on “winging it” will ensure you don’t end up stranded like a ghost at the end of the night. Plan ahead, so you don’t find yourself in a frightening situation.
6. Stick with the Pack
Halloween is more fun and safer when celebrated with friends. Much like a pack of werewolves, staying with your group ensures no one gets left behind. Keep an eye on each other, and if someone in your crew has had too much to drink, help them find a safe way home. Whether you’re heading to the dance floor or taking a breather outside, use the buddy system and make sure everyone sticks together.
By following these tips, Thunderwolves can enjoy a night full of fun and spooky memories while keeping things safe. The key to a fang-tastic Halloween is pacing yourself, staying aware, and making responsible choices.
And if you or a friend ever need support, Student Health and Wellness is always here to help you navigate both the thrills and chills of university life. Stay safe and have a spook-tacular Halloween, Thunderwolves!
Prishaa Rajalathan, Peer Wellness Educator Lead
