Message from Jim Dunsdon, AVP Student Affairs
Dear students,
Halloween can be a time for fun for our campus community, but it should also be celebrated with care and consideration for your safety and the safety of others.
No matter how you choose to spend your weekend, please keep the following safety information in mind.
First aid & emergency response
If you need emergency support, always call 9-1-1 first. If you happen to be on campus, after you dial 9-1-1, call Campus Security at 250-721-7599.
Alcohol & substance use
Please pour your own drinks and never leave your drinks unattended. Learn about steps you can take to protect yourself and others from drink tampering.
If you use drugs, please test them to make sure they’re as safe as possible and don’t use alone. There are resources on campus to support safer substance use, including the Student Wellness Harm Reduction webpage and the UVSS Safer Use webpage.
You will not face consequences or get into trouble with UVic or emergency responders if you call 9-1-1 for help – even if you’ve used substances and/or are in possession of substances. Illicit drug use and the possession of illicit drugs for personal use have been removed from UVic’s Non-Academic Misconduct Policy as examples of non-academic misconduct. You are also protected from criminal charges by the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act.
Consideration for neighbours
If you plan to spend time out with friends in our local communities, please respect your neighbours and municipal bylaws related to noise levels, leave public spaces as you found them, and ensure that you are wearing reflective clothing or carrying a flashlight as you navigate your way to and from events.
Please be aware that only university-approved events and gatherings are permitted in or around Residence Complex buildings. Only residents and their hosted guests are allowed in residence spaces.
Culture of Consent
Preventing sexualized violence begins with respecting one another and practicing consent in all interactions. Using alcohol, cannabis and other substances can impact how to practice consent in significant ways. Learn about the core principles of consent and consent cues and communication.
Have fun, stay safe and look out for each other this weekend.
Best regards,
Jim Dunsdon
Associate Vice-President Student Affairs
University of Victoria
