Stay Safe This Festive SeasonWith Christmas and New Year just around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan how you’ll get home safely from seasonal celebrations. The party season is all about fun, family, and friends—but sometimes the highs can quickly turn into lows if things get out of hand. For some, festive cheer can lead to binge drinking, which not only impacts health but can also increase risks to personal safety, such as becoming a victim of crime or making the mistake of drink driving. Follow these simple tips to help ensure your night ends as well as it begins:
Plan AheadSort your journey home before you go out. If you’re using a taxi or minicab, make sure it’s licensed.Take a photo of the driver and taxi plate and share it with someone you trust before getting in. A legitimate driver won’t mind, and it gives peace of mind.Never travel with a driver who has been drinking or may be under the influence of drugs.If you plan to drink, arrange a safe way home—designate a driver, book a licensed taxi, or check public transport times.Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be home.
Keep Your Belongings SafeCarry your bag close with the clasp facing inward; keep house keys in your pocket.If someone grabs your bag—let it go.Keep hold of bags and phones in pubs and restaurants.
Stay AlertAvoid shortcuts through dark alleys, parks, or waste ground—stick to well-lit routes and walk facing traffic.If you think someone is following you, cross the street more than once. If you’re still concerned, head to a busy, well-lit place and call 101.Think carefully before leaving with someone you’ve just met.
While You’re OutNever leave your drink unattended.Only accept drinks from people you trust.Avoid communal drinks like punch bowls—they can be easily spiked.If you feel unusually drunk after fewer drinks, seek help from a trusted friend or venue staff.Keep your phone out of sight and know how to block it if lost or stolen.Don’t encourage drink driving—think before offering alcohol to someone who plans to drive.
The Morning AfterRemember: you could still be over the limit the next day. Sleep, coffee, and cold showers don’t sober you up—only time does. There’s no excuse for drink driving. Alcohol slows reactions, impairs judgement, and creates false confidence. Most drink-drive crashes happen within three miles of home—so “just down the road” is never safe. 
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