Out tonight? do it right

There's nothing better than a good night out and nothing worse than a bad one.

These tips will help you stay safe and have a great night every step of the way.

Before heading out

• Make sure you know who's coming out and how you're getting home
• Choose a meeting point where you'll wait for friends if you get separated 
• Save the number of a reputable private hire company in your phone and know where the taxi ranks are. You can find out about Northampton's taxi ranks in our licensing section.
• Charge your phone - a flat battery is no use to anyone. (For about £5 you can buy a portable power bank to give your phone a boost while you're out.)

• Save an ICE (in-case-of-emergency) contact on your phone. You can use the medical ID on your smart phone - just make sure you select 'show when locked'

If you go out with a regular group, why not think about saving each other's emergency contacts on your phones as a backup?

While you're out

• Tell someone if you decide to leave earlier than planned
• Text the address to someone you trust if you decide to go home with someone new
• Street marshals and street pastors are often out in the town centre on busy Friday and Saturday nights. They can help if something doesn't go to plan

Getting home

• Never accept a lift from a stranger, there are plenty of licensed taxis in Northampton

• Hail a black cab in the street or at a taxi rank, or ring ahead to book a private hire car to collect you from wherever you are
• Look for a licence plate - a licensed taxi in Northampton will always have a claret and white licence plate on the back of the car, while licensed private hire vehicles will always display a yellow and white licence plates. (It's a good idea to make a note of the licence number, as it will make things a lot easier if you lose something or want to make a complaint.)

Find out more about licensed vehicles in Northampton.

• If you choose to walk home, think ahead and plan your route to make sure you stick to well-lit areas and stay away from shady shortcuts. Always try to walk with friends.

As a passenger you have rights: if you think a driver has acted unfairly or dangerously you can make a complaint.

In case of emergency

If there is an emergency call 999 immediately.

For non-emergencies or if you would like to report a crime which has already happened, please dial 101 to talk to Northamptonshire Police.

For more advice

For more advice on personal safety please visit:

Our student safety page 

The Suzy Lamplugh Trust

Crimestoppers