Sometimes a party environment can quickly turn sour. You can be out drinking with your friends and having fun at one moment, only to be in the middle of an aggressive situation the next. Some people get angry when they are drunk, sometimes resulting in physical violence. You do not want to get into a bar fight when all you are trying to do is have a good time.
While it may be tempting to engage with a hot-headed guy who is getting in your face, you can de-escalate the situation. Read below for some tips for staying calm and getting out of the bar unscathed.
1. Stay aware
The most effective way to avoid a bar fight is by avoiding the possibility altogether. This requires situational awareness. Pay attention to the mood of the crowd. Do you see someone brooding in the corner? Is a person angrily venting to someone else? If you notice warning signs of a potentially hostile situation, it might be a good idea to find another party spot or head home.
2. Keep your cool
Sometimes you cannot anticipate an aggressive environment from developing. If someone gets in your face, resist the temptation to push back in any way. Do not exchange insults or any physical aggression. Take a deep breath and make it clear that you do not have any interest in engaging. Put your hands up to your chest with your palms facing the aggressor.
3. Inform security
When all else fails, talk to security about the instigator. If there is not a security guard, find a bouncer or even the bartender. Bar staff do not want fights and will do what it takes to kick people like this out. If the bartender does not kick out aggressive person, you might want to find another bar.
Unfortunately, you might get in the middle of a fight and maybe even face charges. If this happens to you, make sure you avoid these mistakes.