It is important to understand units and how to stay within safe limits.

Eating will help slow the absorption of alcohol into the blood stream.

Be prepared with contraception if there is a chance it will be needed.

Plan how to get home before going out.

Try to avoid loading up with alcohol before going out. It increases the chances of becoming ill from drinking too much.

Alternating soft drinks or water with each alcoholic drink will help to reduce overall alcohol intake.

Avoid mixing alcohol and drugs as it is uncertain what the effects will be.

Keep valuable possessions out of sight.

Only accept drinks from good friends – or take the drink directly from bar staff to be safe.

Make sure that friends look out for each other and stay with people who can be trusted.

If a friend becomes ill from drinking, stay with them and look after them. Call an ambulance if they become unconscious.

Never go home alone or with a stranger.

Walk away from situations that are stressful or annoying. Find a quiet place to calm down.

Talk to friends about alternative ways of having fun that don’t involve alcohol. Use the money on the cinema, bowling or buying a football.

For help to cut down on drinking, confide in a parent, teacher or doctor.

Drink Spiking information, film clips and fact sheet

How many units in a drink?

What you need to know about drinking and driving

Where to go for help and support

Alcohol and the Law

Drinks and units

Tips for safer drinking

Cannabis fact sheet

Mixing alcohol and other drugs

The negative effects of cannabis on the body