The only way of staying safe from drugs is not to use them! But if someone does decide to use drugs, there are ways of trying to reduce the harm that they could cause themself and those around them. When we say safer use we don't mean risk free! As long as someone choose to use drugs they will always be exposing themself to some risk. But by following some of our tips they can help to reduce that risk.

This section contains general tips that people can follow to reduce their risk of harm when using drugs. For more detailed information on different types of drugs visit our A-Z of Drugs and see the Safer Use section for each drug.

Before taking any drugs think about these points...

• All drug experiences are affected by the way someone is feeling at the time. So someone should try not to use drugs if they are feeling ill, depressed or anxious- it could make them feel much worse!
  
• Expect to feel rough the next day and possibly later in the week due to a hangover or comedown.
  
• Eat a good meal a few hours before going out, having an empty stomach can make someone feel sick and light headed.
• Try not to use drugs alone or in a place where they won't be found if something goes wrong- they may need help or just someone to talk with if they start to feel bad.
  
• Avoid using drugs in dangerous situations, such as when they are in unfamiliar places or with people they don't know, this could make them more vulnerable to being attacked.
  
• There is no way of knowing the exact strength of drugs bought on the street, what someone gets is anyone's guess! Street drugs could be cut with anything! Take a small amount to start with and wait for the effects before deciding whether to take more. There is no guarantee how a drug will make someone feel.
  
• Mixing drugs (including alcohol) can be very dangerous. Try not to mix drugs as it will put a much greater strain on someone's body and the effects can be unpredictable. Keep an eye on your friends.
  
• Injecting drugs is one of the most dangerous ways of getting a drug into the body but if someone is going to inject, they should follow these tips to reduce the risk:

1. always use sterile injecting equipment every time and never share your injecting equipment.

2. don't inject when alone, if they overdose it's important someone is there to call an ambulance and to look after them.

If someone is going out dancing and using drugs like ecstasy it's important to make sure they are hydrated and that they don't overheat. Try to drink (sip, don't gulp!) a pint of water or soft drink every hour but don't drink too much as this can be dangerous. If they are feeling too hot, take a rest from dancing somewhere cool or get some fresh air.

The next day...

• Try to eat and drink something to help their body recover, for example, water or fruit juice. They should try to avoid drinking lots of tea or coffee as this will only dehydrate them more and keep them awake.
  
• Don't be tempted to take more drugs to help with the come down. Coming down is part of the experience. They should take things easy, get some rest and look after themself.

Getting home...

• Don't be a passenger with someone who you suspect has used drugs or alcohol.
  
• Remember to keep taxi money separately so you've always got a safe ride home, or club together with your mates.
  
• Keep the number of a taxi company on your mobile phone
  
• Stick together with your mates on the way home
  
• Don't accept lifts from people you don't know.

If something goes wrong...

• If someone starts to feel sick or anxious tell your friends straightaway.
  
• If someone does start to feel bad act immediately. Go somewhere quiet and try to keep them calm.

If somebody collapses...

• If someone collapses after taking drugs or alcohol, turn them on their side and put them in the recovery position. Check to see if they have anything in their mouth and that their airway is clear.
  
• Call an ambulance. If you know what the person has taken tell the medical staff. They are there to help and this could help save the person's life.
  

What happens when you ring 999?

• If someone has overdosed from drugs they need the ambulance to arrive as soon as possible- this could save their life!
  
• The police will not normally accompany the ambulance crew in cases of drugs overdose but if the operator hears shouting they may become worried about the safety of the ambulance crew and will ask the police to attend- so stay calm.
  
• If you know what drugs your friend has taken, tell the medical staff, it will make treating your friend much faster.
  
• Remember, the medical staff are primarily concerned with helping your friend, so work with them.