The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) is reminding people to stay safe this St Patrick's bank holiday weekend.

According to the centre, this is a time to celebrate our national heritage and unique culture, however people should bear in mind certain things if they are going out over the coming days.

The DRCC is reminding people that the legal age of consent for having sex in Ireland is 17 and if a person has sex with another person without their consent, this is a crime.

"A person may not give their consent freely if they are asleep, are unconscious or severely impaired due to alcohol, are mentally impaired, are under 17 or have been coerced in any other way that is deemed to be reckless.

"When a person is taken advantage of in any of these circumstances whereby they have not given their consent freely, they suffer the huge trauma of the effects of being raped," the DRCC said.

It has devised the following tips for keeping safe this weekend:
-Stay with your friends, try to not get separated
-Keep your drink in your hand at all time and do not accept a drink from someone you have just met, even if he/she is a friend of a friend
-If you have to put your drink down, ask someone you know to keep an eye on it
-If you feel uncomfortable with someone or in a particular place, leave as soon as possible
-Nominate a designated minder for each group of six
-Share taxis with friends. If you have to travel alone, make sure to phone ahead and give an estimated time of arrival. Make sure the driver hears you phoning ahead.
-Make sure your phone is charged at all times.

In the event of a rape or sexual assault, call the 24-hour national helpline on 1800 77 88 88. You should contact someone trusted, such as your parents or a friend, get the medical support you need and if you want to report the incident, contact the Gardai.

For more information on the DRCC, click here