While Dartmouth students look forward to Winter Carnival as a momentary escape from academia, Safety and Security and the Hanover Police see a need to gear up for a weekend traditionally made dangerous by heavy drinking and freezing temperatures.
"We are concerned because we do anticipate there will be a lot of people consuming alcohol, and this affects people differently in this weather," Kinne said, predicting the weekend high temperature to be around 18 degrees.
Up to three Safety and Security foot patrols will be placed strategically around campus to monitor the well being of Dartmouth students during the festivities. According to Kinne, one of the main concerns is the possibility that a student affected by alcohol will be left out in the cold, possibly unconscious for a long period of time.
Most of the activity will be centered around registered parties held by Greek organizations, according to both Kinne and Hanover Chief Nicholas Giaccone.
Kinne is optimistic however, and said that the presence of many parties on campus may actually prevent students from drinking as much as they otherwise would if they were spending their time walking across campus trying to circulate just a few spread out parties.
Kinne also stressed the need to take all possible precautions and to do everything in moderation. He also hopes that students will watch out for one another and place Good Samaritan calls if necessary by calling Safety and Security.
Chief Giaccone does not anticipate a sharp increase in crime this weekend.
"The arrests or contacts are not any different than they would be on any other weekend," Giaccone said, "Consequently there will be no staffing changes."
Giaccone cited the polar plunge at Occom Pond as one event they will be paying attention to because of its inherent dangers.
The cancellation of many traditional events through the years has led to less foot traffic with fewer visitors from out of town, and consequently a lower need for police presence, according to Giaccone.
"The ski jump and Nordic events up at The Dartmouth Skiway years ago were big events. And Sunday also brought big crowds when the dorms and fraternities used to have sculptures, but it's not like the old days anymore," Giaccone said.
