A night out with friends can be amazing: filled with laughter, dancing, and unforgettable memories. However, amidst the excitement, it’s crucial to prioritise safety. Whether you’re hitting the town for a night of clubbing, attending a local comedy night or simply enjoying a dinner and drinks, taking precautions is essential to ensure you have a fun and secure night out. We’ve got some handy tips for you to ensure your university experience is both a fun and safe one.
Plan Ahead
Before you even step out the door of your student accommodation, make a plan. Decide on your destination, transportation options, and the people you’ll be with. Inform someone you trust about your plans, including where you’re going, who you’re with, and when you expect to return. Having a solid plan in place can provide peace of mind and act as a safety net just in case anything goes wrong.
Stay Together
Stick together with your friends throughout the night – no matter what. This reduces the risk of getting lost or separated, which can lead to dangerous situations. Don’t let your friends wander off with strangers, regardless of the reason they give you. Try to stay in at least pairs, whether that’s when going to the toilet or heading out to the smoking area.
Choose Your Transportation Wisely
Opt for safe transportation options. If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver, use public transportation, or take advantage of taxis in the area. Avoid walking alone, especially in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Always prioritise safety over convenience, even if it means having one fewer cocktail and spending that money on an Uber!
Drink Responsibly to be Safe on a Night Out
Alcohol can impair judgement and your decision making abilities – it is essential to drink responsibly. We know you’ve heard that a thousand times, but it bears repeating! Set a limit for yourself and stick to it; you’ll know how much alcohol you can safely handle. Stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic beverages with water where possible. Watch your drink at all times to prevent it from being tampered with, and never accept drinks from strangers unless you can see it being poured in front of you.
Trust Your Instincts
Your gut feeling is a powerful tool. If a situation or person makes you feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. Don’t worry about being polite or avoiding confrontation when your safety is at stake. It’s better to be safe than sorry – speak to bar or venue staff, and let your friends know what’s happening to ensure you’re always safe on a night out.
Be Safe on a Night Out: Stay Connected
Keep your phone charged and accessible: charge it before you go out, and take a portable charger out with you if you have one. You may need it to call a taxi, check in with friends, or navigate your way home. Consider using location-sharing apps with trusted friends or family members so they can track your whereabouts if it comes down to it…
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, as well as the local area. If you’ve recently moved to a new city for university, it is important to figure out where the bar or club is compared to your student accommodation. Familiarise yourself with the layout of the venue itself, too, including emergency exits. Avoid dark and secluded areas, and be cautious when leaving or entering buildings. Trust your awareness to detect any potential threats so you can stay safe on a night out.
Have an Emergency Plan to Stay Safe on a Night Out
Prepare for the unexpected. Have a plan in case you get separated from your group, lose your belongings, or encounter a threatening situation. Know the location of nearby police stations or emergency services and have a reliable means of communication with you at all times – we know that phone never leaves your sight, so make sure it’s with you on a night out too!
A night out should be a memorable and enjoyable experience, not marred by safety concerns. We know some of these tips might seem a bit ‘dramatic’, but it really is better to be safe than sorry; staying safe on a night out will ensure there are many more fun evenings with your uni pals in your future.
