Ways to Stay Safe on St. Patrick's Day
March 17 is around the corner. This fun day is full of green socks, tutus, face paint, music, parades, and of course, beer. Although this is a day of celebration, the mix of energy, and all day celebrating can come with risks. Many people go all out on St. Paddy’s Day so check out these tips to help you and your friends stay safe while celebrating.
Make Sure to Plan Ahead
Find out where you want to go, what time, who you are going with, and how you’re getting there. Planning in advance for a big celebration will make things less chaotic when the time comes. Start out by searching for St’ Patrick’s Day events to see what’s happening near you, what’s convenient, and looks like the most fun.
Pick a Designated Driver or Use Public Transportation
After you decide what event you’re going to and who is coming along, have a conversation about who will not be drinking. Unless you plan on taking public transportation, it’s important to designate a driver who can get everyone back home safely. And if you are taking public transportation, make sure you are sobered up enough to make it home safely.
And be ready to improvise. Download a ride share app, just in case your first plan doesn’t work out.
Stay Hydrated and Eat
Do not drink adult beverages on an empty stomach. If you plan on taking advantage of the Irish drink specialties, check out their Irish food specials too, like shepherd’s pie or a corned beef sandwich.
Keep a glass of water by your side to stay hydrated throughout the night. If not, you may find yourself ending your celebration early, or finding it difficult to get out of bed the next morning.
Never Walk Away from Your Drinks or Take Drinks from Strangers
This has become a rule of thumb, especially for women, when going out for drinks. Unless you leave your drink in the hands of a trusted friend, its best and safest to buy a new one if you ever leave it unattended.
And don’t accept drinks from strangers, no matter how cute they are. If you did not open the drink, or it wasn’t handed to you by the bartender, you could be putting yourself in a dangerous situation.
Stay with Your Friends
Friends should watch out for each other, especially when going out for St. Paddy’s day. Starting a group chat before going out can be very helpful.
Travel together as a pack whenever possible. Tell your friends when you are stepping away to dance or use the bathroom, and even then try to have someone come with you.
When it’s time to go, make sure everyone has a safe way to get home. And if someone has to leave early, never let them go home alone. It’s never fun to leave the party early, but the safety of your friends is more important than any party.
If you’re the one who has to leave early, be thankful to the friend who took you home. You might owe them breakfast the next morning…
Wear Green!
Once you have your plans in order, put together your best green outfit, makeup, and accessories, to get in the spirit of St. Paddy’s Day. Remember the pinching rule!
How creative can you get? And don’t forget to take lots of pictures so you can look back on this day.
Spruce Up Your St. Patrick’s Day Facts
Did you know St. Patrick was kidnapped at one point in his life and taken to Ireland? Did you know blue was the first color associated with St. Patrick? Get more fun facts like these to talk about with your friends from TheFactFile.
Stay safe and have fun!