What better way to forget the stresses of your working week than a great night out? With a little planning and common sense, you can ensure your night out is one to remember … not one you would rather forget!
- Eat before you start drinking
It’s a great idea to have a decent meal before you begin your night out. Having a well-lined stomach will help your body better absorb alcohol and stop you getting too intoxicated, too fast.
- Don’t go out alone
Someone by them self is an easy target, and in a group you lessen the odds of becoming a target for unsavoury attention. Travelling with friends can also make the taxi fare cheaper!Stay in well-lit, populated areas and never leave with someone you have just met, no matter how enticing they may seem.
- Carry your phone
Ensure you have your mobile phone on you. Keep your valuables safely tucked away out of sight and on you at all times. Don’t take non-essential expensive items with you on your night out.
- Never leave your drink unattended
Unfortunately, having your drink spiked is a common issue. Never, ever leave your drink! Keep it in your hand covered with your hand if necessary in a crowd. Remember not to accept drinks from strangers that you haven’t seen poured either.
- Alcohol
Watch your alcohol intake. Excessive alcohol lowers your awareness and increases your vulnerability, making you more likely to make poor decisions. If you drink sensibly, alternating with glasses of water, you are more likely to stay in control – and avoid a mean hangover!
- Taxis
Don’t drink and drive! If you don’t have a designated driver then taxis are your next best option. Make certain to have the phone number of a reputable taxi service pre-programmed into your mobile. It’s a lot simpler at the end of your night out when you might have had a few too many!
Many taxi companies offer a Call-Back service that informs you your car has arrived and even goes as far as to give you the vehicle’s details and a meeting point. Contact your local cab company to register and for more details. Another tip is to put a spare £10 in your shoe in case of emergency.
- 0800-Reverse
This is a fantastic free service that you can use anywhere in the UK. Available on all mobile phones, home phones and even payphones. No need to subscribe to this service, you simply dial 0800 REVERSE (0800 7383773) and follow the prompts and the charges get reversed to you! Simple and easy to use. You only need to remember one phone number on your night out.
- iPhone Users
For all you iPhone users out there, there is a free app you can install on your iPhone. Find My iPhone could be used as a great tracking tool for your partner to use at home so they know where you are at all times. This great app even gives you driving directions to where your iPhone is located!
This guest post has been sourced, researched and written by Diane Povey who is contributing content for the road traffic accident claims and work accident compensation claims at Claims National.