Homecoming’s Here – let’s keep it fun and safe!
As students get ready to enjoy Homecoming events on campus this Saturday September 20, McMaster is collaborating with the City of Hamilton and Hamilton Police Service to share information on how to stay safe.
McMaster Students Union (MSU) and Student Affairs are teaming up to bring back a full day of Homecoming events on Saturday, September 20, designed especially for students as a warm welcome to campus. To help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, McMaster University is working closely with the City of Hamilton and Hamilton Police Service to share important safety information and promote respectful behaviour in nearby neighbourhoods.
“In partnership with the MSU, we’ve organized a day that offers students fun and memorable experiences in a safe and respectful campus environment,” says Sean Van Koughnett, associate vice-president, students. “By prioritizing care—for ourselves, one another, and our broader community—we can ensure a successful event that reflects the community spirit of the McMaster student experience.”
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.
A University District Safety Initiative has been declared from Friday, September 19, 2025 at 12:01 a.m. through Monday, September 22, 2025 at 11:59 a.m., 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.
Students can learn more about the City of Hamilton’s nuisance party by-law and zero tolerance zone here.
Staying safe this weekend
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:
- Call 905-522-4135
- 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
- Sexual Assault Centre (Hamilton and Area) SACHA offers a 24-hour support line at 905-525-4162
- Text with 9-1-1: https://www.textwith911.ca/en/home/
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.
More information on the McMaster Student Wellness Centre website.
