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For the sake of your personal safety, I am going to discuss this topic in a frank way [not sugar coated] and make some general assumptions about the general behavior of a good portion of many party goers in today's society.

What ever type of party you attend, remember that drugs and alcohol don't mix. I know. It sounds like a cliche doesn't it? Needless to say, the use of alcohol and drugs can affect your ability to make decisions such as identifying threatening situations and identifying and plotting escape routes. It is important that you manage how much consume.

1. Always get your own drink. If possible, watch it being poured.

2. Never leave your drink unattended.

3. Don't share, drink or taste anybody else's drink.

4. Dispose of your beverage if you think it tastes odd. If this is the case, be sure not to leave it around for someone else to drink.

5. You may not realize that anything has been added because drugs that are used to spike drinks can be colorless and tasteless.

6. Be aware of the behavior of your friends. Is the way they are behaving out of character? Do they seem too out of it for the quantity or type of beverage they had to drink?

7. Watch out for your friends. Are they drinking or taking too much. Are they making safe decisions? Are they OK?

8. If it appears your friend needs to sober up or straighten out, be sure to check to see if they are OK. Are they alone? Who is with them? Are they safe?

9. Encourage people who appear drunk to drink water or to eat something. If you can, keep an eye on them.

10. Ask yourself, do you really trust whom you are going home with? Are you sure that they won't make you do anything you do not want to do? Will they take "NO" for an answer?

11. If you are going home with someone different, let someone else know. Introduce this person or persons to your friends.

If You Are the One Throwing the Party:

1. Know whom you have invited to the party and plan ahead what you will do if there are any gate crashers.

2. Provide food and non-alcoholic drinks as alternate beverages like water, soft drinks or juice.

3. Keep a look out for your guests. Make sure they are safely having a good time.

4. Offer to organize taxis for your guests. Also make note of which taxi company you called.

5. Create a safe atmosphere. If you know that someone is harassing or intimidating someone else, do something about it. For example, you can let that person know that you are watching; ask the person to stop; ask the person to leave; find the victimized person a safe place; do not be afraid to call the police.

Last but not least, stay safe yourself and ask for help if you need it.