Safer Nights Out – Taking Responsibility for Your Personal Safety

By Squire Patton Boggs

The festive season is fast approaching, and while it’s a time for celebration and connection, a few sensible measures can help ensure everyone stays safe and enjoys themselves.

Work-related social events, including client gatherings, are considered an extension of the workplace. This means you are representing your organisation and are expected to behave in a professional and respectful manner. Keep the following in mind:

Professional Conduct

• Drink responsibly
  The provision of alcoholic drinks is not an excuse to drink excessively. Alcohol-related behaviour can result in potential gross misconduct action, which may result in dismissal without notice.

• Alcohol affects everyone differently
  If you are planning to drive after an event, the safest option is to avoid alcohol completely as even one drink could put you over the legal drink driving limit.

• No illegal substances
  The use or influence of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited.

• Respect others
  Discrimination, bullying or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. All social events should be inclusive, safe and enjoyable for everyone.

• Protect professional reputations
  Be mindful of how you behave and what you share on social media. Avoid posting anything that could reflect poorly on you or your organisation.
  
• Maintain confidentiality
  Do not share sensitive or confidential business information during or after the event.
  
• Reach out to a member of HR or a line manager
  If you experience or witness anything concerning, please speak confidentially with HR or your line manager.

• Keep conversations light
  Avoid topics that may lead to conflicts or complaints. These events are a time to relax and enjoy yourselves with colleagues and clients.
  
• Dress appropriately: Follow any event-specific dress codes.

Getting Home Safely

Planning your journey home is just as important as enjoying the event itself. Wherever possible, prearrange your transport and let someone know your expected arrival time. Many smartphones allow you to share your live location for added peace of mind.

• Taxi
  • Use a verified taxi service or app, such as Uber.
  • Avoid accepting rides from unlicensed drivers.
    
• Public Transport
  • Keep your ticket or pass ready to avoid displaying your wallet.
  • Wait in well-lit areas and near others when possible.
  • Sit in busier train carriages and move if you feel uneasy.
  • On buses, especially after dark, sit near the driver.
  • If you feel threatened, make noise to attract attention from staff or other passengers.

• Walking
  • Walk facing oncoming traffic to avoid kerb crawlers.
  • If you feel followed, cross the road confidently and seek help in busy areas.
  • If a vehicle approaches suddenly, turn and walk in the opposite direction.
  • Avoid confrontation – stay calm, speak clearly, and try to de-escalate.
  • If in danger, shout specific instructions like “Call the police” to alert others.
  • Carry a personal alarm and keep it accessible in quiet areas.