Going out, staying safe

Follow some simple tips to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime on a night out.

Night Out

Make sure someone knows where you are going, who you are meeting and when you expect to return.
Don’t leave your bags, coats or mobiles unattended.
Always carry a fully charged phone and enough money for a taxi home.
Keep some cash in your pocket in case you lose your purse or wallet.
If you are with a group of people, watch out for each other.

Always plan how you are going to get home - carry the phone number of a trusted, licensed taxi or use a Hackney cab. Never take an unlicensed minicab. These are unchecked and uninsured.
Stay Alert! Chatting on your mobile phone or listening to music will distract you and stop you from hearing potential danger signs.
Use a personal safety alarm. Keep it easily accessible and carry it in your hand if you feel at risk.
Stick to busy streets and near other people.
Avoid poorly-lit areas, deserted parks, or quiet alleyways.
Avoid shortcuts that may be fine during the day but unsafe at night.
Always check the times of the last train, tube or buses.

Eat before you go out or buy food on the way.
Watch your drinks being poured – don’t accept drinks from anyone you don’t trust.
Never leave your drink unattended.
Alcohol can seriously affect your ability to make safe judgements. Have a safe upper limit for how much you are going to drink and stick to it.
Drink water or soft drinks between alcoholic ones to keep hydrated.
If you feel drunk, dizzy or disorientated, ask for help from a friend or the pub or club staff.
Remember that mixing alcohol and drugs can be extremely dangerous.