How can you identify and avoid risky situations involving AOD?

• A. Ignore red flags and stay in riskier settings.
• B. Recognize red flags such as pressure to drink, intoxicated people, unsupervised settings, and leave or seek help.
• C. Only avoid drinking if you are driving.
• D. Always stay with a large group regardless of behavior.

Answer: (B)

Recognising warning signs that alcohol or other drugs could put you at risk and acting to remove yourself is how you stay safe. The best approach is to spot red flags such as pressure to drink, visibly intoxicated people, or unsupervised settings. When you notice these cues, leave the situation or seek help from someone you trust, like a friend, a responsible adult, or venue staff. Having a plan helps too: decide how you’ll exit, agree on a buddy system, arrange transport, and know where you can get help.

Why this is the best approach: it focuses on taking control before harm happens. Ignoring warning signs or staying in risky settings keeps you exposed to pressure, poor decisions, or unsafe situations. Limiting safety to “only avoid drinking if you’re driving” misses other dangers you might encounter, and staying with a large group doesn’t automatically keep you safe if the group is engaging in risky behavior. Recognising red flags and acting to leave or seek help reduces your exposure to harm and supports safer choices.