Avoiding Date Rape

> Carry your keys, travel card and phone card in your pocket, so you can give up your handbag and escape quickly if necessary.

> Whenever you are going out, particularly if you are meeting someone new, leave details of where you are going, who you are meeting and when you expect to return.

> Plan how you are going to get home, e.g. take the number of a reputable taxi firm.

> To avoid a drink being spiked, try not to leave your glass unattended. It is better to drink out of bottles and keep them close when you are dancing.

> ALWAYS carry the card of a reputable taxi/mini-cab company with you.

> If you feel ill or light-headed tell the barman/waiter straight away and ask for a taxi to take you home, using your own card.

> If you do meet a problem your primary aim is to get away as fast as you can.

> Carry a personal alarm and know how to use it to shock and disorientate an assailant so that you can get away .

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