St. Patrick's Day is right around the corner, and the City of Reno is expecting plenty of people to be out celebrating.
Like every holiday, several agencies are stressing the importance of celebrating safely.Â
Both Safe Embrace and the Reno Police Department stress planning ahead. That could be knowing how to get out of an unsafe situation, or how to get home safely.
"It's better to get to an event safe and get back safe than ending up in jail with a lot of fines or seriously injuring or killing somebody," said RPD spokesperson Hunter Mercurio.
Officer Mercurio says public transportation is a great way to get home safely and avoid a DUI, or something worse, as well as taking advantage of ridesharing services.
While out, though, it's important to know how to communicate with those around if something unsafe is going on.
For example, ordering an "angel shot" at a bar can signal that you need help getting out of a potentially dangerous situation.
"The bartender would then be able to call law enforcement on behalf of the person ordering the shot. They also have a small list of resources, with, of course, us included, where that person can then get follow-up resources and information," said Leslie Berg, Program Director for Safe Embrace.
Different types of angel shots can be ordered, specifying the type of help that may be needed.
Ordering the shot neat or straight up asks the staff for a safe escort outside. When ordered on the rocks, the staff will arrange for a safe ride home through a rideshare. And, if it's ordered with a lime or a twist, the staff will call law enforcement.
Other tips to stay safe include sticking with a group, sharing locations, watching drinks, and reaching out for help if needed.
