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Food helps to slow the absorption of alcohol which will stop it going to your head so quickly. Carbs and protein are ideal to eat before you go out. You will also save a few quid by avoiding that end of night kebab…well maybe!

Drinking four standard drinks on a single occasion more than doubles the risks of injury in the proceeding hours. This risk increases more rapidly when more than four drinks are consumed on a single occasion. We are all different sizes and our limits vary, don’t try to keep up with others.

Don’t let anyone pressure you into drinking more or drinking faster and if your mate asked for a single then don’t give them a double!

Drinking alcohol quickly can cause you to lose track of what you’ve drank and will cause you to become drunk faster so pace drinks to one or fewer per hour and avoid drinking games. Try Alternate alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Avoid peer pressure, pace yourself & know your limits.

Make sure you always stick together to ensure a safer night out. If someone disappeared don’t assume they’ve just gone home. Use apps such as ‘Find my friends’ or enable ‘Location Sharing’ on Google Maps so you know where each other are if you’re finding it difficult to find each other.

Look out for your friends – don’t leave anyone behind!

Just in case you need it!

If you find yourself alone and feeling unsafe call 999 or University Security on 01248 382795 for advice and support.

Make sure to always write EMERGENCY contact numbers on a piece of paper.

If you can no longer use your phone you can always use an alternative phone. Possibly ask staff in any open outlet.

Make sure your mobile phone is charged and in credit.

Don’t be peer pressured, or peer pressure your mates into drinking more than they want to.

Know the symptoms of drink spiking and remember you can ask at the bar for a drinks cover.

Symptoms include: Difficulty concentrating, blurred vision, memory loss, nausea / vomiting, paranoia, loss of consciousness.

Having your drink spiked with alcohol or drugs can make you vulnerable. You might not notice the difference to the taste of your drink, but the effects can be serious. If you suspect your drink, or the drink of someone else has been spiked tell someone you trust as soon as possible. Speak to venue staff, ask for your drink to be tested. If your condition worsens seek medical attention.

• Always watch your drink and do not leave it unattended.
• Keep an eye on your friends’ drinks.
• If you notice someone put something into someone else’s drinks, let them know.
• A simple way to protect your drink is to keep your thumb over the top of the bottle or your hand over the top of your glass.
• Ask at the bar for cover to your drink.
• Do not take drinks from strangers.

Plan your journey home & travel in groups. Book a taxi in advance and only use licenced taxis

Someone following you? Feeling uncomfortable? Need help on your night out? Then ask for ‘Angela’. The bar staff will know you need help and will help in any way they can, without causing a fuss!

A good tip for staying hydrated and not drinking too much.