Nights out are a big part of the festive season. Whether you are heading to a pub, club, gig or house party, it can feel good to celebrate, connect with friends and enjoy a change of routine. You deserve to have fun in a way that keeps you safe.
A little planning can help you avoid stress, look out for friends and feel more in control, especially when alcohol or drugs are involved.
Stay with people you trust
It is easier to enjoy yourself when you feel safe and supported. Try to stick with friends who look out for each other, and agree a plan if someone wants to leave early or go somewhere different.
You could:
• Share locations on your phones
• Agree a “buddy” for the night
• Check in regularly, especially if someone disappears for a while
Nobody should feel alone or pressured.
Keep drinks in sight
Sadly, drink spiking continues to happen in nightlife spaces. Protect yourself and your friends by:
• Keeping your drink in your hand or line of sight
• Avoiding sharing drinks with people you do not know well
• Watching drinks being poured when ordering
• Telling staff if something feels wrong
If someone suddenly feels confused, sick, dazed or very drunk despite drinking little, get help quickly.
Pace yourself
If you choose to drink alcohol or use drugs:
• Go low and go slow
• Take regular breaks from drinking
• Sip water between alcoholic drinks
• Eat something before going out
These simple actions help you stay aware of how you are feeling and catch any early warning signs.
Avoid mixing substances
Mixing alcohol with benzos or opioids can be especially dangerous, as they all slow your breathing. Stimulants with alcohol can also put a lot of strain on your heart.
If you are not sure what is in something, test first if you can, or take a much smaller amount to begin with.
Have a plan for getting home
Getting home safely is part of looking after yourself. You might want to:
• Book a taxi in advance
• Stick with a group on the way home
• Tell someone when you have arrived safely
• Have a backup plan in case transport changes
Keeping your phone charged helps too.
Check in with yourself
Every so often, ask yourself:
• Am I still having fun?
• Do I feel safe with the people I am with?
• Does my body feel OK?
• Do I want to slow down?
Giving yourself permission to step back, grab a soft drink or head home early can protect both your health and your night.
Look after friends
If someone in your group seems unwell, confused, panicked or unusually drowsy, stay with them. Trust your instincts if something feels wrong.
Do not be afraid to ask for help from:
• Venue staff or security
• First aiders
• Friends nearby
• Emergency services
Acting quickly can prevent serious harm.
What to do in an emergency
If someone becomes unresponsive:
• Call 999 immediately
• Put them in the recovery position
• Give Naloxone if opioids may be involved
• Stay with them until help arrives
You will not get into trouble for seeking help. Emergency crews want to keep people alive and safe.
Looking after yourself is not a buzzkill
Feeling safe, connected and in control makes a night out better, not worse. You deserve a festive season filled with moments you enjoy and remember.
If you have a bad reaction, come across a dodgy batch or get a positive test strip result, you can report it anonymously at:
wirralways.org.uk/report
Your experience could protect others.
Enjoy yourself this festive season
Look out for each other
You matter
Last Updated on 4 December 2025