Top Tips for Staying Safe This Festive Season

Christmas is right around the corner, and we want you to make the most of the festivities whilst staying safe. Whether you’re venturing to the high street for some Christmas shopping, heading to a light show or festive night out, there’s plenty to see and do in Manchester. 

Although ‘tis the season to be jolly, you don’t want to be caught out by anyone who might be using the darker nights and distracting displays to target busy crowds.  

So how do you enjoy the festive season while also staying safe? Check out our tips to make this Christmas one to remember, for all the right reasons: 

5 simple safety tips to enjoy the fun this Christmas 

1. Be aware of your surroundings 

As the nights get darker, you might be invited to enjoy more events after dark – including light trails, firework displays, or cosy nights out. But it’s important to remain vigilant whilst you’re out at night and always stay close to your friends. 

When walking at night, whether on campus or around the city, remove any noise cancelling headphones and keep your phone in a zipped pocket or bag where possible. Distractions can make you vulnerable at night, so keep them to a minimum. 

If you’re heading on a night out, remember that not everyone you meet will have the best intentions. Don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know, or that you have not seen being made, and always keep your drinks with you. 

For more tips on enjoying a night out safely, check out Greater Manchester’s Good Night Out Guide. 

2. Secure your personal belongings  

Whether you’re heading to the famous Manchester Christmas markets for mulled wine and mince pies, or getting involved with some last-minute shopping on Mad Friday (20 December) – be mindful of important personal items like your phone, wallet, and keys. 

Busy venues such as shopping centres, high streets and the Christmas markets can become targets for opportunistic pickpockets – but you can work to keep your things safe. 

Take extra care if you are carrying cash or cards (especially as you move between shops and stalls) and take time to replace your purse or wallet in a zipped inside pocket, or at the bottom of a secured handbag or crossbody bag. 

There will also be a police presence at the Manchester Christmas markets. So, if you feel unsafe, please speak to an officer.  

3. Stick with your friends 

The Christmas season is meant to be shared with others, so inviting your friends or flatmates to any festive events is a great way to get together and keep yourselves safe. 

When you’re going out at night, always plan your route home and travel back with friends. There’s always more safety in numbers and it will also be cheaper to split a taxi.  

Never walk home alone. Instead, use public transport as a cheaper alternative to a taxi. You should check to see the times of local buses or trams before you leave, so you know how late they run.   

4. Download the SafeZone app  

Your safety is always our priority,. The SafeZone app will give you peace of mind when you’re on campus and exploring the city. It’s free to download, easy to use and available 24 hours a day, year-round. 

In the app, you can: 

‘Check in’ – 24/7 to tell us where you are. 

Call for assistance – quickly and discreetly, whether it’s for first aid or in an emergency. 

Raise an alert – and help will be on the way, when you’re in the following areas: 

On campus  

Along the Oxford Road Corridor  

On and around the University of Salford Campus (including MediaCityUK)  

Victoria Park and Fallowfield  

To find out more and download the app, head over to our SafeZone webpage. 

5. Be mindful of others 

However you decide to celebrate Christmas with your friends or flatmates, whether you’re using one of our cosy night in hangout ideas or hosting a celebration at home, you should always be mindful of your neighbours. 

Keeping noise to a minimum or even giving your neighbours a heads up that you’re having people over, will go a long way! Just because it’s the festive season doesn’t mean that those around you will be in the mood to celebrate, especially if they have to get up early for work the next day! 

Be respectful of your neighbours by keeping communal areas tidy. Dispose of your rubbish properly and don’t leave any waste or décor outside on paths or in garden areas.