Party Safety Tips

Check these tips to have fun at parties and stay safe, too.

• Before the party, plan ahead.

  • Go to the party with friends. Make a pact to watch out for each other and leave together.
  • Select a designated driver before you leave for the party.
  • Use the buddy system.
  • Plan to do something at the party besides drinking alcohol, like dancing, socializing, or grabbing a bite to eat.

• During the party, be aware.

  • Trust your instincts.
    • Speak up if you're uncomfortable.
    • Make a scene if you can't get out of an uncomfortable situation.
    • Observe the environment around you. Is it changing? Do you sense a dangerous situation? If so, move to where you feel more comfortable.
  • Think before you drink.
    • Never leave your drink unattended.
    • Know your limits.
    • Avoid random mixers.
    • Remember that if drugs or alcohol are involved, sexual assault is much more likely to happen.

• After the party, take care of yourself.

  • Communicate about sex.
    • Know your sexual limits, and communicate them clearly with your partner.
    • Be direct. Make sure your partner understands exactly what you mean. Be verbal in expressing what you want and don't want.
    • If you have sex, protect yourself and your partner by using a condom.
  • Don't mix driving and drinking.
    • Never let yourself or your friends drive after drinking.
    • If necessary, find a safe ride home with a friend who hasn't been drinking, or call a cab.

• The next day, think about what happened.

  • Think objectively about the party.
    • Take an honest look at your drinking behavior. Are there parts of the party you don't remember? Do friends have to fill in details for you?
  • Did you have a close call?
    • Think about how to avoid a similar situation in the future.
    • Discuss healthier behaviors, and get advice from a friend or counselor.
    • Educate yourself. Try these resources:
      • Personal Safety Overview
      • Personal Safety Tips
      • Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) Classes