Be Aware of Drink Spiking

• Be alert to the possible use of drugs: ‘Date rape’ drugs, GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate), liquid ecstasy, and other substances are often used in spiking incidents. These drugs can cause drowsiness, confusion, and loss of consciousness, making it difficult to defend yourself or escape a dangerous situation.
• Buy your own drinks: To reduce the risk of your drink being tampered with, always purchase your own drinks and avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
• Keep your drink in sight: Never leave your drink unattended. If you need to step away, ask a trusted friend to watch it for you or discard the drink and get a new one.
• Use drink protection devices, such as StopTopps or Spikeys: Using protective covers for your drinks can prevent them from being tampered with.
• Know your limits with alcohol: Alcohol can impair your judgment and lower your guard. It’s important to stay within your limits and keep track of how much you’ve had.

Staying Together and Staying in Touch

• Stick with your friends: Staying in a group provides safety in numbers. Look out for one another throughout the night and have a plan if anyone feels uncomfortable or wishes to leave.
• Agree on a meeting point: In case you get separated from your group or lose contact (due to a lost phone or a dead battery), pre-arrange a meeting place where you can reconvene.
• Use messaging apps: Set up a group chat before going out, and use location-sharing features to keep your friends informed of your whereabouts. This ensures that someone always knows where you are.

Protect Your Belongings and Accommodation Details

• Keep your accommodation details accessible: Make sure you have your hotel’s address and contact details readily available. Take a screenshot of the address before heading out so you can show it to a taxi driver if needed.
• Avoid sharing accommodation details with strangers: This includes disclosing where you’re staying or room numbers to people you don’t know well.

Prepare Ahead of Time

• Check travel advice from reliable sources: Before you travel, review advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office FCDO Travel Advice for your chosen destination. Pay attention to safety warnings, local laws, and customs.
• Sign up for FCDO email alerts: Register for email alerts specific to your destination to stay informed of any travel updates or changes.
• Get travel insurance: Ensure you have a valid travel insurance policy, even for short trips, to cover medical emergencies, lost belongings, or cancellations. Read the policy carefully to understand what’s covered.
• Know the local laws and customs: Being aware of cultural differences and legal restrictions helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures a smoother travel experience.