Party Safety

Whatever your drug of choice, remember: drugs and alcohol can affect your ability to make decisions (such as identifying danger signs and plotting escape routes). Manage how much you consume.

* Always get your own drink. Watch it being poured.
* Don't leave it unattended.
* Don't drink or taste anybody else's drink.
* Don't accept drinks from anyone else.
* Dispose of your drink if you think it tastes odd (if you just leave it, someone else may drink it).
* Drugs used to spike drinks can be colorless and tasteless so you might not realize that anything has been added.
* Be aware of the behavior of your friends. Is their behavior out of character? Do they seem too "out of it" for what they've had?
* Watch out for your friends. Are they binge drinking or taking drugs? Are they making safe decisions? Are they OK?
* If your friend needs to sober up or straighten out, check to see that they are OK. Are they alone? Who is with them? Are they safe?
* Encourage people who are drunk to drink water or eat something. Keep an eye on them, if you can.
* Do you really trust whom you are going home with? Are you sure they won't make you do anything you don't want to do? Will they take "NO" for an answer?
* If you are going home with someone different, let someone know. Introduce them to your friends.

If You're Throwing the Party

* Know whom you have invited to the party and plan what you will do if there are gatecrashers.
* Provide food and non-alcoholic drink spacers like water, soft drinks and juice.
* Keep a look out for your guests. Make sure they're safe and having a good time.
* Offer to organize taxis for your guests. Take a note of the taxi company you have called.
* Create a safe atmosphere. If you know that someone is harassing or intimidating someone else, then do something about it:

1. Let them know you are watching;
2. Ask the person to stop;
3. Ask them to leave;
4. Find the victimized person a safe place;
5. Don't be afraid to call the police.

Stay safe yourself and ask for help if you need it.