Staying safe on nights out.

When it comes to staying safe in the city, the best advice is to just be cautious and use your common sense. If something doesn’t feel right, walk away. If you need to contact the Police for a non-emergency incident, call 101. Always call 999 in an emergency where there is a threat to life or a crime in progress.

You can also anonymously call Crimestoppers with information about an incident on 0800 555 111. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you don’t have to give a statement or go to court. Speaking out could save a life. 

Tips for staying safe on a night out

Know your limits

Try to avoid drinking so much that you blackout or become unaware of your surroundings. To help, make sure you’re drinking lots of water to keep hydrated and balance your alcohol levels. Pace yourself and always eat before you go out. 

Ensure your phone is charged and findable

If you get separated from your friends, or find yourself in a difficult situation, this simple step will ensure you can still contact the right people. We’d also recommend turning on ‘find my iPhone’ or ‘find my mobile’ in case you lose your phone or if you get lost and your friends are trying to find you.

Stick with your mates and make sure to look out for each other

If you’re in a really crowded area, make sure to arrange a meeting point (either at the bar or by the toilets etc.) in case someone gets lost and can’t be reached by the phone. Agree a time to leave by and make sure to let each other know if you or someone else strays from the plan.

Never get in an unmarked taxi

Always use a trusted method of transportation and where possible, plan your route home before you even leave for an event. Whether that’s checking the last bus times, making sure you’ve got Uber or Bolt downloaded on your phone or hopping on the tram. If you’re in an Uber, share your journey with a friend.

Don’t walk home alone, especially late at night or in unlit areas

Avoid walking home alone as much as possible. If you do have to walk a section of your journey alone then stick to main roads and call someone so they know where you are. Utilise the Find my Friend app on your phone to keep your loved ones informed of your whereabouts.

Think before you take drugs

The safest way to take drugs is not at all. However we understand that some students may choose to try them, and that it is often common-place within the music industry. If you are taking drugs, it’s vital you stay informed. Make sure you’re aware of the effects and the risks, make sure you’re in a safe space and

Manchester Drug Analysis and Knowledge Exchange (MANDRAKE) chemically analyse drugs at key events and nightclubs across the city. They share alerts on their Instagram and Twitter when super strength drugs are in circulation or when substances are being mis-sold or have contaminants in them. Be sure to follow them to stay in the know.

Keep an eye on your drinks

Unfortunately reports of drink spiking have increased across the UK over the last year so it’s important to stay aware and know what to do if you think you or your mates have been spiked. Most clubs and bars in Manchester have adopted anti-spiking tools and test kits. Approach a member of staff and ask for ‘Angela’ to indicate that you need help.

If you’re seriously unwell, ask a friend to take you home or to hospital. If you’re alone or feel you’re in immediate danger, call 999. Substances can leave your body after 12 hours so it’s important to contact the police if you think you’ve been spiked, so they can conduct tests and help you make an official report.

As always, Sarah, your Welfare Officer is available to provide support through one-to-one consultations. Email sarah.bradney@spiritstudios.ac.uk to book an appointment.