Five Ways To NOT Get Shot in the Depot District

When I got to work today I was shocked to hear that five people were shot in the Depot last night at "Melt" of all places. I have always considered "Melt" one of the better bar/restaurants in the Depot (even though there was a shooting last night I still support the owners and hard working employees of "Melt"). I will not rehash the details of last night or the shooting at Jake's that went down recently, but I will offer you some very good advice that might save your life.

While in college I worked a lot of bars as a bartender and as security and trust me when I tell you that I have seen it all. From BFF's stabbing each another to a father and son that opened fire on one another at a wedding reception. When alcohol is involved things can get crazy and out of control on the turn of a dime. Here are some things to remember when you are out to have a good time that will ensure that's all you have, a good time that is and not end up in a old west shoot out in the streets of Lubbock.

1) Obviously location is important. All of us know what bars and clubs have a shady reputation. The Drug and power drinking element when mixed in a club scene is a powder keg that could explode at anytime so just avoid those places. Yes it is that simple. If you can buy a shot of liquor just as easily as you can buy dope in a bar, something is probably gonna jump off before the nights over.

2) Dress code is always important. If you walk in a bar and it is full of white T-Shirts and NBA gear, turn around and get out. Do not be naive. The gang element in Lubbock is strong and some clubs and bars at 2am turn into the wild west. Everybody fighting! A strictly enforced dress code is important and will decrease your chances of getting shot by 100.

3) Watch the alcohol consumption. Not just the amount you have had but the amount others have had. If a group is screaming "Shots Shots Shots!!!" and looks like it could get out of control then chances are it will. There are a lot of choices when in the depot, you can always just move on and find another place.

4) Just let it slide. If a drunk hits on your guy or gal or accidentally spills some beer on you. Just let it go. Don't run your mouth or make a big deal out of it. Everyone is out to have a good time. 99.9% of people do not get dressed up and grab their gun and say to themselves "Imma go blast some ass". They are out to have a good time, have to much to drink and the next thing you know shots are fired and lives are lost. Turn the other cheek, be the bigger person and let the little things go.

5) Leave at the first sign of trouble. If your in a club or bar and a huge fight breaks out and is broken up. That is your cue to find another place. Do not wait around for the losers of that first altercation to go and get their guns or knifes or whatever and return with a vengeance. I mean really? Is any party worth losing your life or the life of one of your friends over?