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IEC material · Peer safety

Staying Safe at Parties and Gatherings

Practical, judgement-free steps for looking after yourself and your friends on a night out, from planning ahead to responding to an emergency.

Audience
Young people, students, peer educators
Region
Global
Edition
2026 Edition

Designed PDF edition coming soon to the publications library

Section 01

Plan Ahead

Most of what keeps a night safe is decided before you leave the house.

  • Know the location and how you will get there and back safely.
  • Charge your phone and keep emergency contacts handy.
  • Set a check-in plan with a friend.
Section 02

Stay Aware and Look Out for Friends

Situational awareness is the single most effective harm reduction tool in a crowded room.

  • Keep an eye on your drink to prevent spiking.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
  • If a friend seems unwell, stay with them and seek help if needed.
Section 03

Know Your Limits and Stay Hydrated

Pacing matters more than quantity.

  • If you choose to drink alcohol, pace yourself and drink water in between.
  • Avoid mixing alcohol with other substances.
  • Listen to your body. If you feel unwell, stop and seek support.
Section 04

Be Mindful of Substances

If someone chooses to use, these three habits reduce the most risk.

  1. 1
    Start low and go slow

    Take a smaller amount first and wait. Redosing too early is a common cause of overdose.

  2. 2
    Know what you are taking

    Avoid unknown pills or powders. Use a drug checking service where one exists.

  3. 3
    Have naloxone available

    If opioids may be present, naloxone reverses an opioid overdose and buys time for emergency services.

Section 06

Emergency Situations

What to do when something goes wrong.

  • Call emergency services.
  • Position them on their side in the recovery position.
  • Do not leave them alone until help arrives.

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