Drinking and partying can be a lot of fun, especially if you stay safe and know your limits. Here are some tips on how to avoid bad decisions while under the influence of alcohol:

• Have A “Sober Buddy” - If you tend to drink to the point that your decisions are impaired, bring a “sober buddy” along with you. This person is not necessarily a designated driver, but one who can still have fun without assuring you’re doing something stupid, like dancing naked on top of the bar or going home with someone you don’t know.
• Let Someone Know Where You’ll Be - Let a roommate or friend know that you’ll be at XYZ Bar or a certain party and should be home by 3:00 a.m. Make sure to leave your cell phone number, just in case you don’t come home by your allotted time.
• Carry A Cell Phone - If you’re going to be leaving a cell phone number, well, you better be carrying a cell phone. This will help you out if you’re in trouble or need a ride home.
• Do Not Flash Valuables - Don’t wear expensive jewelry or be handling large amounts of cash. If you’re impaired, it makes it easy for someone to assault or rob you. If you’re carrying a purse, keep it by your side at all times.
• Watch Your Drink - Order your own drinks, and do not pick up a drink that you’ve lost sight of. Date rape drugs are still a threat, and The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services has a site covering the most common date-rape drugs and their effects. If you think you’ve been drugged, call the police right away.
• Do Not Go Home With Someone You Don’t Know - Alcohol impairs your judgment about people, so a half-hour chat with a new person over some beers does not mean you know the person. Do not go home with him and her. If you like someone, give him or her your phone number, and meet up when you’re sober for some coffee or lunch.
• Make Sure You Have A Way To Get Home - Whether by taxi, a designated driver or a group of friends to walk with, always have a way to get home, and never by yourself. And never drink and drive!
• Know Your Limits - The best way to avoid impaired judgment is to pace yourself and know your limits. Tip Diva, for one, orders a gin and tonic, which takes her a very long time to sip throughout the night. When she’s done, she drinks a glass of water and waits before ordering another. Is a hangover or stupid decision really worth getting drunk?
• Carry ID And Extra Money - Make sure you carry an ID (good bars should be carding you anyways) and extra money with you, just in case you run into any trouble or need a taxi.
• Watch Your Friends - Keep an eye out on your buddies. If your friend is getting groped by someone she doesn’t know, it’s time to leave the bar or party. Make sure they don’t go home with people they don’t know, and that they arrive home safely.

How do you stay safe while drinking?

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