Elsewhere on Ulster
Between parties, nights out and catching up with friends, Christmas often means more socialising than usual. A little bit of planning can go a long way in making sure your nights out stay fun, safe, and stress-free.
Nights out are always better with friends. Stick with your group, look out for one another, and make sure no one gets left behind at the end of the night.
Before you head out, give your phone a full charge. It makes meeting up easier and ensures you can order a taxi or contact friends if you get separated.
It’s always a good idea to have some cash on you in case you misplace your wallet, have issues with your phone, or miss the last bus or train home.
If you’re drinking, pacing yourself helps you enjoy the whole night. Try ‘Zebra Striping,’ which is alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Most venues now offer great alcohol-free options like mocktails, alcohol-free beers, a wide range of juices and the usual soft drinks.
Don’t leave your drink unattended. If you do have to leave your drink, order a fresh one when you get back.
It’s rare, but if you ever feel like someone might be following you, trust your instincts. You can cross the street to check, head for a well-lit or busy area, and call the police on 999 if you need support. If there are people around, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If you’re on a night out and feeling unsafe, you can discreetly ask for help by approaching staff and asking them for ‘Angela’.
This lets trained staff know you need assistance. They can help reunite you with a friend, call a taxi, or involve venue security or the Police if needed. For more info, visit the PSNI website.
