IN THE run up to the festive period the following safety and security messages have been provided by Police Scotland:

With the festive season upon us many people will be out celebrating in pubs and clubs for their festive nights out, so please help everyone stay safe.

Plan your night out and how you will get home

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Take your mobile phone with you and make sure it is fully charged

Stay with friends and don't leave with strangers

If you feel very drunk or unwell after a small amount of alcohol then ask a trusted friend or a member of the club/pub management for help

If you think you have been spiked, report it to the police and seek medical assistance. All reports will be investigated

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Don’t take drugs or new psychoactive substances (sometimes misleadingly called ‘legal highs’)

Don’t have sex with anyone who is too drunk or under the influence of drugs as this means they can't give consent and in Scots Law this is rape

Look after bags and valuables

Keep enough money to pay for your journey home

Use a trusted taxi company that you have used before, or arrange for a friend or family member to collect you

Stay alert at cash machines, be aware of who’s behind you and keep money and your PIN out of view