Halloween is a popular holiday for the college-aged crowd. It’s nothing really new if you’re into cosplay, but it’s a more acceptable opportunity to break out your killer costume-making skills and it’s a unique way to have some fun with your friends. 

I love Halloween parties due to the absurdity of it all. You’d never think you’d see Zorro, Sailor Moon, The Mad Hatter and Ernest P. Worrell all in one room. 

While Halloween parties for the college crowds are a fun way to spend the night, rather than just sitting at the dorm or in your apartment watching the entire “Halloween” film series marathon, there are some very important safety tips I hope you follow.

We’ll start off with the ones you should be familiar with already: Drinking alcoholic beverages is not an uncommon sight, but don’t think that just because you’re dressed like Captain America that drinking a large quantity of alcohol will not have its affects on you. So, know your limits so your life doesn’t turn into a real-life horror story.

Just like when you were trick-or-treating as a kid, it’s best to go to Halloween parties in groups and not by yourself to places you’re unfamiliar with. This especially goes to those who like to wear more provocative costumes. You may be everyone’s friend at that moment, but some people’s friendly demeanor can be deceptive, so make sure you know when something is going too far and that you have a method of being in touch with a friend.

My last important reminder is to observe the rules requested by the hosts of the party. Due to the recent tragedy in Colorado, some venues are requesting not to have costumes that include full-face masks or paintings. Another is having a no tolerance policy toward costume accessories that appear to be realistic looking weapons, notably guns.

I know it seems like we’re back within the confides of our grade school’s Halloween celebrations, but it’s best to follow that rule, so it doesn’t allow some crazed lunatic a chance to take someone’s life.

Now that you know what not to do, it’s time apply it to make your Halloween night as safe as possible. Soak up the fun and absurdity of it all, because just like Christmas, it only comes once a year.