People in Darlington urged to plan and stay safe on nights out
Darlington Council is offering advice
As the Christmas party season approaches, Darlington Council are encouraging people to think ahead and follow some handy tips to ensure everyone has a good time.
A series of simple safer nights messages have been appearing on social media and around the town to remind people to plan ahead before they enjoy a big night out.
The tips are aimed at all ages and include pre-booking a taxi; making sure your phone is charged and looking out for your friends.
There is also information about Number Forty on Skinnergate which provides a safe space for anyone who needs help on a Friday and Saturday night between 9pm and 3am.
Amanda Riley, the council’s cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “Darlington is a safe place to go out and have fun but there are things we can all do to ensure we have a good time.
“In the excitement of the festive season and getting ready to go out I hope these messages will remind people to take some simple steps to stay safe.
“We know our taxi ranks will be extremely busy so please be patient. Alternatively, you can book a taxi in advance, catch the bus or take it turn with friends to be the designated driver.”
The tips
Pre-book your taxi in advance
Avoid waiting around for a lift home by pre-booking a taxi.
Ask for details of the car when making the booking.
Make sure the driver knows the destination and the name it was booked under when it arrives.
There are several taxi firms operating in the town as well as a number of independent drivers who advertise online.
Be prepared for a longer wait at taxi ranks
At busy times, you may have to wait a while at taxi ranks.
The main taxi ranks in town are at Grange Road, Market Square and Bondgate. There are taxi marshals on duty at weekends at the Grange Road taxi rank.
Check your taxi is licensed
Licensed vehicles have private hire or hackney carriage licence plates.
Private hire vehicle and red taxis also have council door signs and hackney carriage have roof signs.
Ask to see the driver's ID badge before you get in.
Don't share personal information, other than your destination, with the driver.
Be a designated driver
Before your night out, see if one of your friends will be the designated driver - staying on soft drinks so they can give everyone a lift home. Don't forget to volunteer too!
Never drink and drive - you're not only breaking the law but putting yourself and others at risk.
Know the last bus and train times
Check bus and train timetables before you go out so you know what time you will need to head home.
Check Traveline for bus and train journey information.
You can also plan your journey online or call 0871 200 22 33 (calls cost 12p per minute from landlines and mobiles) 7am-8pm.
Charge your phone
If you need to contact friends or family or try to arrange a lift home, you need to know your phone won't run out of charge.
Calling for help
If you are in the town centre and feel vulnerable or need help, there is an emergency button on a lamp post outside Number One Bar on Blackwellgate. The button connects you straight to the CCTV control room which is manned 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. The CCTV team will arrange any help you need and liaise with civic enforcement officers and the police.
Get help from Number Forty
Number Forty, on SKinnergate, is open from 9pm-3am on Friday and Saturday nights to provide help to anyone who feels vulnerable, unwell or has been victim of a crime.
It is staffed by trained security staff and volunteers who are on hand to offer help whatever the situation.
Since it opened, Number Forty has helped lost party goers reunite with their friends; provided first aid; helped people get to hospital; called taxis and family members; supported victims of crime and handed out free water, flip flops and ponchos!
If you are in the town centre and need a hand, please pop in.
The police
Durham Police carry out regular patrols in the town centre.
In an emergency, call 999. For non-emergencies, call 101.
Other help
There are taxi marshals on duty at weekend at the Grange Road taxi rank. They ensure the taxi queues are safe and can help if you have any concerns or worries about your safety.