Tips to Drink Safely At Bars

Whether you are out drinking with friends or meeting up with someone new, it is important to prioritise your safety. While nobody ever goes out with the intention of things going bad, being prepared can help minimise the risks and ensure your night is nothing but fun.

Here are a few essential tips.

• Let someone you trust know where you are going and when you will be home. Or perhaps a simple check-on on social media will do
• If meeting a new drinking buddy somewhere, make it a place that is easily accessible and popular. You don’t want to be leaving to head home via a secluded carpark or quiet laneway. Perhaps choose somewhere you are already familiar with. 
• Have a backup plan. Know how you will get home and make it easy to leave by having taxi numbers saved in your phone or by checking that your apps like Uber, Grab and Lyft are up to date. Keep charge on your phone and ideally, bring a power bank with you.
• Don’t leave your drinks unattended
• Know what you are drinking. You may be offered to try a new and delicious drink but make sure you know what is in it. Some alcohol can be very potent, and you should be cautious if it is something you haven’t experienced before. 
• Interact with the bar or security staff so they can come to your assistance later in the evening should it be needed.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels a bit off about the person or people you are drinking with, don’t be afraid to end the catch-up early. Perhaps even call some friends to come and join you to make leaving easier. 
• Know your limits. If you feel like you have had too much to drink, start drinking some water between rounds and be prepared to stop drinking when you know you have had enough. Be sure to eat food either before you start drinking or while drinking.