Halloween is a time for fun games, costumes, and parties, not just for kids, but for adults too. It can be relaxing to spend the weekend dressing up in creative costumes and sharing some drinks with friends. Unfortunately, Halloween celebrations can often get out of hand. Thousands of people are injured or arrested for misdemeanor, or even felonies. In fact, Halloween is one of the worst nights of the year for police departments.
Thousands more individuals are arrested on Halloween night than an average night, usually for crimes such as criminal mischief and destruction of property, public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and public urination. Unfortunately, DUI arrests are also common and extremely dangerous. Many people are also victims of assaults and other crimes. In order to prevent getting arrested for a crime and to keep yourself safe, you should keep the following tips in mind this Halloween.
1. Never drink and drive. Either have a designated driver who stays far away from alcohol all night or plan to use a cab service both to and from the bar or party.
2. Be extra careful around roads. Whether you are a driver or a pedestrian, take extra care on or alongside roads. Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pedestrians, since many people are drinking and a lot of people (including unpredictable children!) are walking near roads. If you are driving, go slower than usual and keep a look out for pedestrians. If you are walking, especially near bars, be aware of your surroundings and stay off the road.
3. Use the buddy system. Never go alone to a Halloween celebration. If you are with friends, they will be able to look out for your well-being as you look out for theirs. This both helps prevent you from being a victim of a crime and also helps someone from making poor decisions that could lead to an alcohol-related arrest after a few too many drinks.
4. Be aware of your limits. Although a few drinks out with friends can be a fun activity for the evening, keep track of how much you are drinking and know when to stop. The most common Halloween arrests are related to overdoing it with alcohol, especially since it impairs good decision-making skills.
5. Keep your cellphone on you at all times and make sure it is charged. You should always have it on you in case of emergency. A great way to make sure you won’t lose your phone is to make sure that your costume has somewhere for you to store the phone.
6. Avoid costume or props that can be confused with a real weapon. Because crime is up on Halloween weekend, the police are on high alert. You don’t want to risk being confused with an actual criminal or to draw unnecessary attention to yourself.
7. If you are hosting a party, choose beverages and decorations carefully. Remember that as a host you can be held responsible for anyone hurt or over-served on your property. Choose decorations that are not hazards, keep exits clear, and cut off anyone who is getting too intoxicated. You should be aware of what is going on at all times and don’t feel too intimidated to end a party that is getting out of control.
8. Keep an eye on your drink at all times. It is important to know what is in your drink simply to know how much alcohol you are consuming, but also to protect yourself from other drugs or substances that could be added. Only take a drink you saw made in front of you and don’t let the dink out of your sight. If you have to put the drink down and unwatched, it’s best to get a new one just to be safe.
9. Keep in mind that Halloween tricks and pranks can still land you in jail. It may be tempting to egg a house or to spray silly string, but these can be considered destruction of property and, as such, can get you arrested. Try to find other fun activities.
10. Trust your instincts. If a situation feels dangerous or makes you uneasy, trust your gut. Get your friends, call a taxi, and leave for another place where you are safer. It is always better safe than sorry, and there is no end of choices for Halloween celebrations.
Halloween can be a lot of fun, but it is not worth potentially long-lasting consequences. Follow these tips to stay safe, and keep on the right side of the law this year. If you do run into trouble and end up clashing with police on Halloween, contact Cincinnati DUI lawyer Brad Groene from Luftman, Heck & Associates. Often these charges can be dropped or mitigated by a good criminal defense attorney, and Luftman, Heck & Associates is available 24/7 to be contacted for a free consultation.
