7 Ways to Have a Safe Night Out at a Nightclub
As the pandemic gradually becomes more contained, nightclubs and bars are opening up again in the world. People will begin filtering back to new spots and old favourites alike, looking to enjoy drinks with friends, listen to dance music, and finally feel some sense of ‘normal’ again. However, as we start to visit different types of nightclubs and bars, we need to be aware of ways to stay safe.
This goes beyond just dating safety, as it involves being wary of many strangers around you, quite possibly while you are in a situation where your judgment is compromised due to alcohol or drug use. While, without a doubt, consent needs to be explicitly and enthusiastically stated by everyone involved in all instances, in order to stay safe, folks must, unfortunately, look out for themselves. Not everyone can be trusted, especially at a bar or nightclub.
To have a safe night out, look no further. Below are seven tricks we use to stay safe while still having the time of our lives.
Turn your phone’s location settings on
Before you head out to the nightclub, be sure to ensure that your phone is fully charged and that your location settings are turned on. Using apps like Find My Friends to keep tabs on your group’s whereabouts can be a great tool to make sure everyone is safe, and, in the case that anyone can’t be found, you can track their location through the app.
Never let your drinks out of sight
Whether an alcoholic or a virgin drink, never let your beverage out of sight. We recommend holding it at all times directly in front of your body, near your chest. With this in mind, don’t take any drinks from strangers — even if they seem nice — and even watch the bartender as they mix your cocktails.
Try to stay in eyesight of a trusted friend
When it comes to an evening out, it’s better to travel in numbers. Before you go out at night, be sure to pair up with at least one other trusted friend to be conscious of your location throughout the evening. If you decide to duck away with someone you meet (yes, even if you are planning on having sex in public), be sure to let your friend know exactly where you’ll be in the club or bar.
Avoid taking drugs that compromise your judgement
We know that folks have differing opinions on the topic of drug use, but if there’s one thing we want to be clear on, it’s that (for your safety), do your best to avoid judgment-compromising drugs while partying at a bar or club. If you decide to take drugs of any kind while out, make sure you bring your own from someone you can trust instead of purchasing drugs from a stranger you don’t know on-site.
Always tell your friend where you’re going
Whether pursuing a one-night stand or using the restroom (even then, it’s best to go in pairs), always let the friends you arrived with know exactly where you are going. When deciding to pursue a person you met, to go home with them, share as much information on them as possible, including their name, where you’re planning on going (this is another perfect instance for keeping your location settings on), and when they can expect you to check back in. Please note that people can share false information, so you never truly know the facts with certainty.
Only use recognizable taxi companies to get home
Before you go out at night, decide how you will get home from the nightclub. Preferably, this is with one or more friends. If you use a cab, be sure that they are a recognized and reputable company. If it’s a rideshare program, you can send your trip’s status to a trusted friend over text on apps like Uber.
When something feels off, trust your gut
Ultimately, if you are in a situation that feels off or unsafe, trust your instincts. Remove yourself as quickly as possible or, if you feel you cannot do so safely, reach out to a bartender our security guard for assistance. The safety of yourself and your group should be the top priority over anyone’s potentially ‘hurt’ feelings.
If you’re in the club tonight, this month, or any time in the future, we hope that learning how to have a safe night out is more apparent now. As you venture into both the previously frequented types of nightclubs and bars you enjoyed pre-COVID and new spots too, you’ll be fully aware of things that you can do to stay safe.
Remember, regardless of your gender, sexual orientation, and other ‘labelling’ factors, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and look out for yourself and those in your group, all while still having a great time.
Are there any types of nightclubs you typically avoid when you go out at night, over safety concerns? What tips do you swear by for a safe night out? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
