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Have a look at the tips below - they'll give you some ideas of how to stay safe when you're out and about.  Above all, enjoy yourself and have a great night out!

Before you go out...

• Decide how you are getting home and make arrangements in advance - book a taxi or arrange a lift.
• Know where you are going and make sure someone else knows as well.
• Charge your mobile and make sure it has credit.
• Keep enough cash to get home and your keys separate from your bag.

When you're out and about...

• At night, always take the route you know best, try to keep to busy, well-lit areas and don't take short cuts through quiet, badly-lit or isolated areas.
  
• If you're anxious, walk with a friend or stay near a group of people.
• Be careful if you are listening to your personal stereo or MP3 player - you might not be able to hear traffic or anyone approaching.
• Keep your bag where you can see it, not on the floor or over the back of your chair.
• Try not to keep all of your valuables in one place.
• Look confident - you are less likely to be attacked if you appear confident and aware of your surroundings.  Remember, if you are clearly under the influence of alcohol, you will look more vulnerable.

Some tips for safer drinking...

• Eat before you go out, or earlier in the evening, to reduce the effects of alcohol. 
• Drinking in rounds often means you drink more - skip some rounds or opt for a soft drink instead.
• Pace yourself!  Slow down and take smaller sips.
• Reduce your alcohol intake by choosing drinks that are not so strong.
• Be aware that most pub measures are large - you may be drinking more than you intend to.
• Think twice before accepting drinks from someone you don't know very well.
• Don't leave your drink unattended - that way, no one can spike it.  

If you are on a date with someone new...

• Make sure that someone knows who you are meeting and where.
• Have an exit strategy, such as a friend calling you an hour into the date.
• Remember, alcohol is the most common date rape drug.
• Do not drink so much that you are unable to say NO!

Staying safe on your way home...

• If you're using public transport, try to avoid getting off at isolated bus stops, especially after dark.
• On buses, where possible, sit near the driver.
• If you don't want to travel on public transport on your own, arrange a lift with someone you know, or take a taxi.  
• Keep the telephone number of a local taxi firm in your mobile.
• If you're travelling alone, always sit in the back seat behind the driver.
• If you feel uneasy, ask to be let out of the car in a well-lit area where there are plenty of people.