RAINN's Top Safety Tips for Safe Drinking
Printer-friendly versionSend to friend- Trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe in any situation, go with your gut. If you see something suspicious, contact the police immediately
- Don't leave your drink unattended while talking, dancing, using the restroom, or making a phone call.
- At parties, don't drink from punch bowls or other large, common open containers.
- Don't accept drinks from people you don't know or trust and never leave your drink unattended – if you’ve left your drink alone, just get a new one. If you choose to accept a drink, go with the person to the bar to order it, watch it being poured, and carry it yourself.
- Watch out for your friends, and vice versa. Always leave the party or bar together. If a friend seems out of it, is way too intoxicated for the amount of alcohol they’ve had, or is acting out of character, get him or her to a safe place immediately.
- If you suspect you or a friend has been drugged, call 911, and be explicit with doctors so they'll give you the right tests (you'll need a urine test and possibly others). The National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-HOPE) can often send an advocate to the hospital to help you through the whole process.
What should I do if I am sexually assaulted?
Sexual assault is a crime of motive and opportunity. Ultimately, there is no surefire way to prevent an attack. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual violence, it’s not your fault. You are not alone. Help is available 24/7 through the National Sexual Assault Hotlines at 1-800.656.HOPE, and online at rainn.org



