Personal Safety on a Night Out

Personal Safety on a Night Out

Wednesday, 3rd March 2021

Staying Safe on a Night Out 

By looking out for each other and taking some simple precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable night out for you and your friends. 

Plan Your Night 

  • Take your ID, phone and enough money for food and transport 
  • Make sure you have safe transport to and from the venue before leaving
  • Nominate a designated driver if necessary
  • Check public transport times before leaving so you don’t have to wait at the platform
  • If in Melbourne, consider using the NightRider bus or a taxi
  • Tell friends or family where you are going and when you will be home. Keep them updated. 

Drink Safely 

  • Drink within your limits 
  • Eat substantial food before and while drinking 
  • Drink slowly and drink water throughout the night 
  • Never mix alcohol and drugs 
  • If you can’t remember how many drinks you’ve had, it’s time to slow down
  • Never drink and drive or get into a car driven by somebody who has been drinking. 

Drink Spiking 

  • Never accept a drink you haven’t seen the bar staff pour 
  • Don’t leave drinks unattended and keep an eye on your drinks and your friends’ drinks 
  • Remember that even soft-drinks can be spiked. 

Take Care of Your Friends 

  • Staying together and looking after one another is one of the best ways to stay safe. 
  • Stop your friends from getting into fights 
  • Walk away from dangerous or conflict situations and take your friends with you 
  • Don’t leave friends alone with somebody they’ve just met
  • Recognise when a friend has had too much to drink and encourage them to slow down
  • Never leave someone who is drunk or passed out – get them immediate medical help. 

One Punch Can Kill 

  • Do not underestimate the dangers of a single punch 
  • A single head injury can lead to death or serious brain damage if left untreated
  • Call for an ambulance on Triple Zero (000). 

If You Feel Unsafe 

  • Make sure you are not isolated – stay with your friends and head to a well-lit, populated area 
  • Call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. 

SourceNeighbourhood Watch 

Source: Caitlin Fraser