���˴�Ƭ

In anticipation of unsanctioned gatherings often tied to Homecoming and ‘fauxcoming’, Queen’s University and its partners are working collaboratively to inform and encourage safe behaviours through a number of initiatives and social media campaigns.

A social campaign on the encourages students to enjoy the season safely and respect the campus and surrounding community. The posts link to a dedicated web hub with information on staying safe, avoiding fines, and participating in campus events throughout the fall, including Homecoming.

In partnership with the City of Kingston, Kingston Police, Frontenac Paramedics, Kingston Fire and Rescue, Utilities Kingston, KFL&A Public Health, and Kingston Health Sciences Centre, the university and student leaders are working to prevent and address issues related to unsanctioned street parties.

Social campaign

Social posts promote safety and community-minded behaviour, including keeping roads clear, not carrying open alcohol in public, staying off roofs, trees, and hydro poles, avoiding construction sites, and properly disposing of garbage. Other messages encourage students to eat, hydrate, support one another, and use campus supports to reduce strain on emergency services.

A dedicated web hub links to resources on responsible citizenship and student safety and includes information on the University District Safety Initiative (UDSI). The fall campaign will run on Student Affairs social channels and include paid promotion.

Harm reduction and support services

Student Affairs and campus/community partners are focused on harm reduction and student wellbeing during high-risk periods such as Homecoming.

Campus Observation Room (COR): a voluntary, confidential, non-medical detox service operated by Student Wellness Services with trained student volunteers and professional Addiction Support Workers. COR will have extended hours during Saturday, Oct. 18 and during busy weekends.

shares harm reduction strategies via peer-to-peer education, social media, and outreach. Messages emphasize pacing, hydration, eating, and knowing when to seek help.

Party-Goer Kits: Peer-Health Educator Substance Use Team is distributing free kits with harm reduction information and supplies. Naloxone kits are also available in residence lobbies and through Student Wellness Services.

Health Resources Map: helps students find supports and reduces pressure on local medical services.

Alternative programming: late-night and substance-free events are promoted across campus as safer options.

University District Safety Initiative

The will be in effect from Oct. 17 at 9 p.m. through Nov. 2 at 6 a.m. During this period, those found in violation of nuisance party regulations or open liquor laws could face fines from $50 to $2,000 and sanctions under the Queen’s University Non-Academic Misconduct system.

As part of the UDSI, Gord Edgar Downie Pier and the Breakwater Park beach area will be closed from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Oct. 17-19 and Oct. 24-26.

Student-led initiatives

The Alma Mater Society (AMS) is promoting respectful behaviour ahead of Homecoming through in-person and through social media campaigns highlighting the UDSI and student rights, COR resources, discouraging theft of street signs, and practical tips for staying safe while out in the community. The AMS is also partnering with Kingston Fire & Rescue and the Kingston Police Liaison Team, who will be on campus during the week of Oct. 20-24 to introduce themselves, explain their roles, and offer guidance on safety.

During that week, AMS teams will also be out distributing free water, snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, and harm-reduction materials and a food truck will be on campus on Oct. 25 distributing hot dogs and veggie dogs to students.

Food and alternative programming

A “Big Breakfast” will be served in campus dining halls on Oct. 18 and Oct. 25. Electrolyte drinks and chips will also be distributed for free.

Residence no-guest policy

To help ensure safety, a no-guests policy will be in effect in residences Oct. 17-19 and Oct. 24-26, with alternate activities scheduled.

Athletic events

will host events throughout the month, offering supervised activities and opportunities to cheer on the Gaels (see the ):

• Oct. 17: OUA Women’s Rugby semifinal (7 p.m.); Women’s Hockey (7:30 p.m.)
• Oct. 17-19: Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tindall Invitational Tournament
• Oct. 18: Men’s Football vs. Windsor Lancers (1 p.m.)
• Oct. 24-26: Women’s and Men’s volleyball tournament
• Oct. 24: Men’s Hockey (7:30 p.m.)
• Oct. 25-26: Hugh Munby Queen’s Fencing Tournament (all day)
• Oct. 25: OUA Cross-Country Championship; OUA Women’s Rugby final (TBD); OUA Men’s Rugby Quarterfinal (TBD); OUA Football Round 1 (TBD); Men’s Lacrosse (3 p.m.)

Parking restrictions

The City of Kingston will impose temporary parking restrictions around the University District and campus for Homecoming weekend and the following weekend. Restrictions are in effect Friday, Oct. 17 at 5 p.m. to Sunday, Oct. 20 at noon, and Friday, Oct. 24 at 5 p.m. to Sunday, Oct. 27 at noon. Signage will advise of the following changes:

• Aberdeen Street from Johnson Street to Earl Street
• William Street from University Avenue to Division Street
• Earl Street from University Avenue to Division Street
• Division Street from Johnson Street to Earl Street
• University Avenue from Earl Street to Johnson Street
• Johnson Street

Vehicles in violation may be ticketed and/or towed.