The McMaster Students Union (MSU) and Student Affairs are presenting a full day of Homecoming events on Saturday, Sept. 19 to celebrate students and bring the campus community together.
To ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience, McMaster University is working closely with the City of Hamilton and the Hamilton Police Service to share important safety information and promote respectful behaviour in nearby neighbourhoods.
“Together, the MSU and McMaster are offering students fun and memorable experiences in a safe environment on campus,” says Sean Van Koughnett, associate vice-president, Students.
“The best way to reflect the community spirit of a McMaster student experience is to prioritize care — for ourselves, for one another, and for those in our community.”
Stay on campus and avoid fines
By remaining at on-campus events, students can also avoid large fines of up to $10,000 that could come from attending a street party under the City of Hamilton’s Nuisance Party bylaw.
The University District Safety Initiative will be in effect from 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, to 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 20, creating a zero-tolerance zone for bylaw infractions in the neighbourhoods around the university.
McMaster is actively sharing this information through social media, campus signage and residence communications to ensure students are aware of the bylaw.
Click here to learn more about the City of Hamilton’s nuisance party by-law and zero tolerance zone.
Staying safe
In addition to avoiding street parties, students can stay safe by reviewing the resources and tips below.
McMaster resources
Download the McMaster SafetyApp for safety alerts, such as campus closures and emergency instructions. The app is free to download at the Apple and Android app stores.
If you need help, contact Campus Safety Services:
- Use direct line inside any elevator on campus
- Use “Red Rocket” emergency phones located throughout the campus
- Dial “Security Button” via on-campus pay phones at no charge
Off-campus resources
Safety tips for students
- Stay in groups: Sticking with a group of trusted friends allows you to look out for each other and contact help if needed.
- Keep your phone on you at all times: Always have your phone charged and with you so you can call someone for help if needed.
- Find a safe way home: Have the number of a taxi company in your phone or know how to use ride-share apps to get home.
- If you choose to drink alcohol, alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and don’t drink on an empty stomach.
- If you choose to use cannabis, avoid deep inhalation and holding your breath when smoking, and don’t use any other substances at same time (including alcohol) as this will increase your impairment.
Find more information on the McMaster Student Wellness Centre website.