Like many other substances, alcohol and drugs can inhibit a person’s physical and mental abilities (cloud judgment). Certain substances can certainly dull your senses and slow down your reaction time to danger. They can also lower other people’s inhibitions and make them more aggressive or quarrelsome. It is for this reason that certain places like bars and pubs may present some danger, particularly if they are crowded. Irresponsible drinking can increase the chances of people being robbed, kidnapped, raped, or sexually assaulted. This means that alcohol indulgence may make it easier for perpetrators to commit crimes and can even prevent someone from remembering what happened to their bodies or property. What you should do to stay safe while out drinking You can take steps to increase your safety in situations where drinking may be involved. These tips can help you feel safer and may reduce the risk of something happening to you, but like any safety tips, they are not foolproof. When you are out drinking, prioritize your safety with these steps:

1. Plan: Designate a sober driver or plan for transportation.

2. Keep an eye on each other. If you are going out in a group, plan to arrive together and leave together. check in with them, see how they are doing. If something does not look right, step in. Do not be afraid to let a friend know if something is making you uncomfortable about yourself or them, or if you are worried about their safety.

3. Let your friends know if you are leaving early: If you decide to leave early, let your friends know.

4. Charge your phone: Ensure that your phone has enough battery. You will need to use your phone to call families members or in an emergency.

5. Have essentials easily accessible: Carry your ID and cash.

6. Have a backup plan: Download a rideshare app, like Uber, or keep the number for a reliable cab company saved in your phone and cash on hand in case you decide to leave.

7. Know what you are drinking: You need to know what you are drinking. If you do not recognize an ingredient, you can use your phone to check on the internet.

8. Trust your instincts: If you feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or worried for any reason, do not ignore these feelings. Go with your gut. Get somewhere safe and find someone you trust, or approach the security at the outlet, or call the police/ law enforcement, or leave the outlet only when it is safe to do so.

9. Do not leave your drink unattended. That includes when you use the bathroom, go dancing, or leave to make a phone call. Either take the drink with you or throw it out. Avoid using the same cup to refill your drink.

10. Do not accept drinks from people you do not know or trust. This can be challenging in some settings, like a party or a date. If you choose to accept a drink from someone you have just met, try to go with the person to the bar to order it, watch it being poured, and carry it yourself.

11. Be aware of sudden changes in the way your body feels. Do you feel more intoxicated than you should? Some drugs are odourless, colourless, and/or tasteless, and can be added to your drink without you noticing. If you feel uncomfortable, tell a friend and have them take you to a safe place. If you suspect you or a friend has been drugged, ask for help from the liquor outlet or call the emergency number. Be upfront/honest with healthcare professionals so they can administer the right tests (First Aid).

12. Avoid or limit visits to multiple liquor outlets in one day/night.

13.Ask yourself, “Would I do this if I were sober? “Alcohol can affect your overall judgment. You would not drive, make medical decisions, or ride a bike while intoxicated. Drunk. Given this context, is what you are about to do a good idea? Will you be comfortable with your decision the next day?

14. Know your limits: Pace yourself and drink responsibly. Drinking responsibly means:

a) Knowing your limits: Being aware of your limitations.

b) Pacing yourself: Drinking at a moderate pace.

c) Staying hydrated: Alternating with water or non-alcoholic drinks.

d) Eating before you drink alcohol: Having food in your stomach slows down alcohol absorption.

e) Planning ahead: Designating a driver or planning transportation.

f) Monitoring intake: Keeping track of drinks and their strength.

g) Prioritizing safety: Looking out for yourself and others.
h) Check in with yourself: You might have heard the expression “know your limits.” Whether you drink regularly