Working together to promote safety among South Gloucestershire residents, the council, NHS South Gloucestershire and the police have a message for people out partying over the festive period: enjoy the festivities while being aware of the immediate and long-term consequences of drinking too much alcohol.
The agencies have issued some practical tips to consider before you go out, to ensure a great night out and a safe trip home can be enjoyed by all.
They include:
• If driving, rather than getting hung up on ‘safe limits’, don’t drink at all
• Have licensed taxi numbers stored in your phone and book in advance for coming home
• Recommended alcohol limit: women two to three units, men four units max per day
• One unit of alcohol takes about one hour for the liver to break down
• If you have a heavy or binge drinking session remember to let your body recover by having a few drink free days
• Remember, you could still be over the limit the morning after a night out
Cllr Heather Goddard, executive member for communities, said: “Everyone can enjoy themselves while out celebrating in South Gloucestershire if they just take the time to consider a few practical tips in advance of a night out. Those who drink alcohol on a night out are advised to stay within the recommended limits because drinking to excess can make you vulnerable and put you at greater risk of robbery, assault, sexual assault or having an accident.”
And Dr Chris Payne, director of public health for NHS South Gloucestershire, added: “Christmas is a festive time and we want people to enjoy themselves. However, by drinking too much or binge drinking you can put yourself at risk of having an accident or of developing long term health problems. Those are both presents nobody wants.”
South Gloucestershire’s Safer & Stronger Communities Partnership works with its partners throughout the year to raise awareness of alcohol issues and deliver services ranging from education and treatment for adults and young people, to joint operations with the police and trading standards officers.
Anyone needing help with issues relating to alcohol can call 0800 0733 011 for free, confidential advice.
ENDS