Sonoma State University

Staying Safe During Halloween

Tuesday, October 28, 2025, 9:45am

TO: Campus Community
FR: Dr. Gerald L. Jones, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students; Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
 

Dear Campus Community,

As Halloween approaches, we want to share a few reminders to help you celebrate safely and respectfully.

Safety First

Despite there being a low risk of candy tampering during Halloween, law enforcement and public health officials recommend taking simple precautions of inspecting all treats and checking wrappers – throwing away any candy with torn, loose, or otherwise suspicious-looking packaging.

While there is no evidence of fentanyl being distributed to children as Halloween candy, in 2022 there were concerns of fentanyl and other drugs resembling Skittles candy known as “rainbow fentanyl” being distributed in the San Francisco Bay Area. Moreover, in August 2025, the Sonoma County Department of Health Services noted that the county has the third-highest rate of overdose deaths in the Bay Area, with fentanyl being a major contributor.

Please use caution and report emergencies immediately by calling or texting 9-1-1.

HAVE A PLAN – DON’T DELAY SEEKING HELP

In support of a safe and enjoyable Halloween, we encourage everyone to have a plan to stay safe, look after one another, and to keep in mind the following while enjoying the festive atmosphere in our communities. The dates leading up to Halloween have also historically seen increases in overdoses, accidents, crimes, and other unsafe behavior. We ask that you plan ahead, look out for one another, and make good choices for yourselves and others.

  • If you or someone near you is suffering a medical emergency, including from alcohol or drug poisoning, do not delay calling or texting 9-1-1. Timely calls or texts to 9-1-1 save lives. Even if you aren't sure, please call.
  • Don’t drink and drive -- use a taxi, rideshare, or designated driver.
  • Always seek clear, affirmative consent in any intimate situation.
  • Be respectful of neighbors, community members, and campus staff.

Costumes & Respect

Costumes should be fun, not harmful. Before dressing up, consider:

  • Cultural & historical: Avoid stereotypes or misrepresentations.
  • Humor & clowns: Be mindful -- what’s funny to some can be harmful or frightening to others.
  • Action-based: Leave weapon-like props at home for everyone’s safety.

Daylight Saving Time

Don’t forget to set your clocks back one hour overnight between Saturday, November 1 and Sunday, November 2, 2025 as Daylight Saving Time ends.

Final Reminder

If you see something, say something -- report suspicious behavior or emergencies by calling or texting 9-1-1. If you experience harm related to sexual misconduct, discrimination, or harassment based upon a protected class, you can access supportive measures, resources, and/or report the concern to the University through our Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination. Living our Seawolf Commitment Values -- Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, and Excellence -- means making choices that keep our community safe, welcoming, and inclusive.

We wish you a safe, fun, and respectful Halloween!