Halloween in Houston is a time for costumes, candy, and, for many teens and college students, parties. But behind the masks and music, there are real risks that can turn a night of fun into a nightmare.

The Halloween season brings a grim statistic: emergency rooms see a spike in admissions. Teens crash their parents’ sedans after drinking at costume parties. Disputes over territory or disrespect escalate when weapons are present. And every year, someone accepts a pill or powder from a stranger, only to collapse hours later when unknown chemicals overwhelm their system.

Whether you are a high school or college student or the parent of one, here are some tips to consider to stay safe this Halloween season.

To ensure a safe Halloween, consider the following tips:

Stay with Trusted Friends: Always attend parties with a group of friends you trust. Stick together and look out for each other throughout the night.

Drink Responsibly: Only drink if you are of age. If you are of age and you choose to drink, limit your intake and continue to hydrate with water. Never accept drinks from strangers, and never leave your drink unattended.

Avoid Drugs: Do not accept or use drugs from anyone. The risk of substances being laced with harmful chemicals is high, and the consequences can be severe.

Watch for Warning Signs: If you or someone else starts feeling unusually drowsy, disoriented, or unwell, seek help immediately. These could be signs of poisoning or other serious issues.

Have a Plan: Map out your night, inform your trusted circle where you’ll be, activate location sharing and keep your phone accessible. When your instincts signal something’s off, exit immediately, don’t wait until danger materializes. Trust your gut!

Halloween should be a time for fun and celebration, not for regret or tragedy. By staying informed and making responsible choices, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable night. Remember, safety first!