Staying safe at Leavers

No matter what your plans are for Leavers Week there are two things you want to be sure of - having a good time and staying safe (yes, you can do both!). Here’s how:

Be prepared

Plan ahead and make sure you pack:

• medication (if you have allergies or a medical condition)

• warm clothes

• sun protection

• contraception

• mozzie repellent and long clothing

• water.

Look after yourself and others

• Help protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Practice physical distancing, good hygiene, stay away from others if unwell, and get tested if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms.

• Not drinking alcohol is the safest choice. For Leavers aged 18, drinking responsibly will help you minimise the risk of harm to yourself and others. Visit www.alcoholthinkagain.com.au for tips.

• No matter your age, drug use can negatively impact your physical and mental health. Visit www.drugaware.com.au to learn how drugs can affect your life as well as tips for telling people you don’t want to use drugs.

• Practice safe and respectful sex. Use a condom; it’s the best protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and prevents unwanted pregnancy.

Travel safely

• Plan how you will get to and from your Leavers destination.

• Tell people where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

• Always wear a seatbelt.

• If you intend to drink alcohol, don’t drive.

• Only accept rides from people you know, and who have not been drinking alcohol or taking drugs.

Know where to get help

• Create an ‘In Case of Emergency’ or ‘I.C.E.’ number in your mobile phone.

• For Police assistance, phone 131 444.

• For life threatening emergencies, call 000.

• Emergency departments at Albany and Denmark hospitals are open 24 hours.

• Bremer Bay nursing post can be contacted on 9837 4026.

• Walpole Silver Chain nursing post’s phone number is 9840 0900.

• The 24hour alcohol and drug support line number is 1800 198 024.