Remembering the following tips will help you to enjoy your night out safely.

• Plan how you're going to get home before you leave. Make sure you've got numbers for taxis and keep aside enough money to get home safely
• Try turning up to the bar or party later than usual, to minimise your drinking time, or kick off with a soft drink to stop you feeling so thirsty
• Eat before you go out, or during the evening, as eating slows alcohol absorption. Go for food that takes a long time to digest, such as bread, cheese, potato and pasta, as this will line your stomach. A pint of milk is also thought to have the same effect 
• Have an idea how many units are in drinks and how many units you are drinking.
• If you can, avoid caffeinated mixer drinks. Caffeine can speed up alcohol absorption.
• Drink water regularly to stay refreshed and re-hydrated
• Avoid being part of a big group drinking in rounds 
• Use soft drink spacers to pace yourself - a tonic looks just the same as a vodka and tonic. A cola looks the same with or without the rum
• Avoid people topping up your drinks and don’t leave your drink unattended.
• Don't accept drinks from strangers and never leave your drink unattended - it's all too easy for someone to spike your drink (see below) 
• Look out for your friends and make sure they look out for you
• Remember drinks poured at home are often bigger than pub measures
• Don't drink and drive and don't accept a lift from anyone who has been drinking
  

Drink spiking

• Never leave drinks unattended in pubs or clubs. When you go to the toilet, ask your friends to keep an eye on your drink.
• Try to have your drinks in bottles & cover the top with your thumb when walking around.
• Men's drinks get spiked too.
• If you suspect your drink has been spiked, contact a member of staff or tell a trusted friend.