Bournemouth students have raised their concerns about their safety this Halloween despite the towns recent Purple Flag award.
The town won the international award for the 15th consecutive which accredits the safeguarding that is provided on a night out.
However, many students at the university still have some hesitations.
Iris Gilmore, a Marketing student, plans to go out tonight but is still taking precautions.
She said: “You need to be careful and make sure you stay in the right group.”
She added: “The normal rules apply – don’t let random people buy you drinks.”
Popular clubs such as Cameo, Barbara’s and The Old Fire Station have all completely sold out of tickets for their Halloween events.
Iris exclaimed: “I think because it is a busier night than usual and there’s more people out and about, I’m slightly worried that it could get rowdy.”
It is going to be an extremely busy night for the town which adds to the risks already surrounding Halloween.
Especially as people are dressed up in costumes which sometimes alters people’s behaviour.
According to the Office of National Statistics, there is a noticeable increase in reports of anti-social behaviour and vandalism around Halloween.
Joe Van Der Velden is a student who is planning to go to clubbing tonight and is also cautious about the upcoming night out.
He said: “I’ve seen people getting assaulted and fights breaking out on a random night out.”
Further exclaiming: “It will be interesting to see what will happen tonight – especially with the added craziness of Halloween.”
Additionally, Digital Health masters student, Shalom Vic-Jumbo, corroborated his opinion.
She said: “When people get really drunk the town gets more sketchy, specifically at night.”
She proclaimed: “I’m excited for tonight but I will be thinking about how I can stay safe.”
Celebrations are already underway at Bournemouth University with people dressing up for lectures.
The Communication team at the university were fully on board with the fun of the day.
Members of the team dressed up as Glinda, Spiderman and even a lobster.
It is evident, that for many, Halloween is still a joyful day of fun and silliness.
It is unfortunate that the worry surrounding the safety of civilians in Bournemouth casts a shadow over the day.
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