Tips for a safer night out over the festive period.
Everyone likes to let their hair down at Christmas and enjoy the extra socialising that comes with it.
We look forward to our night out and questions that we ask ourselves can include
• “What will I wear?”
• “Where am I going?”
• “How will I get there?”
One question, however, which we often don’t ask is
• “How safe will I be?”
Planning ahead and following a few sensible safety tips can help you enjoy your nights out without becoming a victim of crime.
• Always eat some food before you go out – alcohol on an empty stomach makes people drunk more quickly
• Try to avoid ‘pre-loading’ – having a carryout – before going out (Home measures are a lot larger and people can end up being so drunk by the time they reach the pub or club that they are not allowed in especially those with stewards on the door)
• Drink at your own pace – avoid being in a ‘round’ – If you are in a round it tends to go with the person who is drinking the fastest. If your not ready for another alcoholic drink then opt for a soft drink
• Keep an eye on your drinks and don’t leave your drinks unattended
• Stop drinking if you start to feel sick, dizzy or unwell.
Plan how you’re going to get home before you go out
• Make sure you keep enough cash for your journey home.
• Book a taxi or lift before you go out, or have someone wait with you at a taxi rank.
• If you have had too much to drink, you are at much greater risk of having an accident, or coming to harm because you are vulnerable especially if you are alone – so stick with your friends
Further information on the number of calories and units in popular drinks and support services available in the Borders can be accessed on our website www.badp.scot.nhs.uk
