Leaving Cert students receiving their exam results today are being reminded to look out for each other when celebrating later on.

Just under 57,000 students are set to get their results today and according to youth website, spunout.ie, alcohol may play a big role in many people's celebrations tonight. Even if people are not drinking themselves, their friends may, ‘so it's important to know what to do if things get out of hand'.

The site reminded people that if you did not achieve the results you wanted, alcohol may not be the best idea as it is a depressant ‘and may add to your feelings of lowness'.

For those who do decide to drink however, they are advised to:
-Pace themselves and not mix drinks
-Know their limits
-Eat before they start drinking
-If they start to feel drunk, slow down or take a break. Drink a glass of water between each alcoholic drink.

The site also reminded people to keep an eye on their friends, particularly if they start to slur their words or appear unsteady on their feet. Do not let them wander off on their own.

People are also reminded to have enough money for their taxi fare home and let their parents know where they are and who they are with.

This was backed up by the Road Safety Authority (RSA), which urged people to use public transport where available ‘and make arrangements in advance for getting home safely'.

"If you choose to drive, remember, if you hold a Learner Permit that you must be accompanied by a driver who has held their full licence for more than two years, and you must display ‘L' plates, front and rear. Make the right choices and never drive under the influence of drink or drugs and don't take risks on the road," commented RSA chief executive, Moyagh Murdock.

She also urged people who are taking lifts from friends to make sure they are satisfied that the driver has not consumed alcohol or taken drugs.

"We want you to have fun tonight and to enjoy the celebrations, but we also want you to enjoy the excitement of planning your future. You have your whole life ahead of you, so make the right choice and take responsibility about how you use the roads tonight," Ms Murdock said.

To date this year, 10 people aged between 16 and 20 have died on Irish roads, most of whom were drivers.

Meanwhile, speaking on RTE's Morning Ireland this morning, Betty McLaughlin, president of the Institute of Guidance Counsellors reminded students that if they are upset about their results, they should speak to a guidance counsellor.

"These are only results. They don't define them as people and they will not define the wonderful people that they are and that they will become," she insisted.

Counsellors from the institute will be providing advice on a free exam helpline provided by the National Parents' Council. The helpline number is 1800 265 165 and it is open from 10am to 7pm today and tomorrow and from 10am to 1pm on Friday.