Halloween festivities and the end of Daylight Saving Time fall on the same weekend this year! As the IUP community prepares for Halloween celebrations, IUP Emergency Management reminds students, faculty, and staff to take a few simple precautions to stay safe.

Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 2:00 a.m., when clocks turn back one hour. 

Daylight Saving Time Safety Tips

  • Check Your Clocks: Remember to turn back clocks that do not adjust automatically, and double-check alarms and schedules.
  • Be Visible: With darkness arriving earlier, wear bright or reflective clothing when walking around campus, especially in the evening.
  • Stay Alert: Drivers should use extra caution around campus roads, crosswalks, and parking areas as pedestrians adjust to earlier darkness.
  • Adjust Your Sleep Schedule: Maintain a consistent sleep routine to help your body adjust to the time change.
  • Check Safety Equipment: Use the time change as a reminder to check smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and emergency supplies.

Halloween Safety Tips for IUP Students

With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, students are encouraged to celebrate responsibly and keep safety in mind throughout the weekend.

  • Travel Together: Stay with friends, especially when walking around campus or attending off-campus gatherings. Make a plan to get home safely.
  • Be Seen and Stay Alert: Choose costumes that allow you to see and move freely. Use caution when crossing streets, particularly after dark.
  • Celebrate Responsibly: If choosing to drink alcohol, know your limits, never leave beverages unattended, and never accept drinks from unknown sources.
  • Plan a Safe Ride: Never drive impaired or ride with someone who has been drinking. Arrange a designated driver or another safe transportation option.
  • Keep Your Phone Charged: Make sure your phone is charged before heading out and know how to contact friends or emergency services if needed.
  • Look Out for One Another: If someone appears disoriented, becomes ill, or needs assistance, seek help immediately. Never leave someone in distress alone.

Stay Connected and Informed

Emergencies can happen at any time. IUP students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to review their contact information in Everbridge, the university’s emergency notification system, and ensure their cellphone numbers are registered to receive emergency calls and text messages. Downloading the Everbridge app provides an additional way to receive important emergency notifications.

Remember: Turn your clocks back, look out for your friends, and make safety part of your Halloween weekend!