How To Stay Safe On Your Big Night Out

We asked our members to share tips for those looking to stay safe when hitting the town for some funky fresh Friday night fun. Here's our favourite response.

It's Friday night. Party night. That night where all you want is a good time. Some old-fashioned fun! And for you, fun is a night out with your posse; your clique.

But how to maximise fun and minimise danger?

If you’re over 18, enjoy responsibly…

… lest you end up in a situation where you can't speak coherently, let alone enjoy the company of your friends. No one wants to take care of a drunk you, cleaning up after your chaos. That not only messes up your night but also someone else's.

So, take it easy, have fun, talk and chill. Trust in the fact that this is preferable to puking anywhere and/ or everywhere (in more severe cases), passing out or waking up the next morning with your head literally split open. When it comes down to it, you alone are responsible for yourself. Make choices you want to make; choices that you'd be happy making in your wisest and most Yoda-like frame of mind.

Make a plan for the night and stick to it.

Know where you are and where you're going. What may seem like a grand adventure at first can quickly turn into the World Orienteering Challenge. But it's not getting lost that's the real issue; it's finding yourself in the wrong sort of neighbourhood. So have a plan, and a backup, and stick to it. Most importantly, stick together.

Have an exit strategy.

After all the fun, it's time to go home. Should you drive? Probably not, unless you or one of your mates has the self-control of a Jedi/ lost a bet/ is just that cool and volunteered to be designated driver. Even then, be careful, because while you may take the role of designated driver seriously when it’s your turn, that doesn't mean others always will, even if they are your friends. (The words of Uncle Ben remain relevant even today: “With great power comes great responsibility.”)

Speaking of friends, a good night can turn into a great night if you end up crashing at your mates' and spending the evening, especially if they live somewhat close to your chosen destination. Plus, staying together means staying safe and that's always ideal.

Evidently, it isn't difficult to have a great night out. All it takes is a bit of sense, not over-indulging, having mates you can trust to accompany you and having at least the framework of a plan. Keep these in mind and your Friday night will be a guaranteed good time.

Congratulations to Rishabh for winning this writing challenge, answering: How To Stay Safe On Your Night Out. Rishabh wins a $50 Westfield gift card for his submission. For your chance to win, check out our latest writing challenges in our Comps section. Also, be sure to follow this guide on how to win the writing challenge!