Make it a memorable night out this Christmas
Now that the festive season is in full swing many people are out and about enjoying a few drinks at pre-Christmas parties and celebrations.
At this time of year most of us tend to socialise more than we normally would and a couple of drinks can help us relax when meeting new people and can make a party or celebration more enjoyable. However, alcohol is also a powerful drug that can seriously affect your judgement.
Victoria Creasy, Senior Manager for Public Health at the Health Promotion Agency for Northern Ireland, said: �During this time of year some people may head out for the night with the full intention of getting drunk.
�However, drinking too much (binge drinking) in the short-term can increase the risk of accidents and antisocial behaviour � including fights, vandalism and domestic violence � as well as sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancy.�
The HPA advises people to know their limit and stick to it when it comes to alcohol. If you�re planning to go out and have a few drinks, there are a number of things you can do to stay in control, help you avoid drinking more than you want and reduce the risk of waking up with a bad hangover.
�The first thing is to have something to eat before you start drinking,� said Victoria. �The food will slow down the absorption of alcohol so you won�t get drunk so quickly. Then think about alternating alcohol drinks with soft drinks to pace yourself. Drinking in rounds means people tend to match each other drink for drink, and having kitties means people may drink
more to get value for their money, so rounds and kitties are best avoided. Also, keep track of your drinks and don�t let anyone top up your drink until it is finished.�
Victoria concluded: �Make sure you get home safely by organising how you�re going to get home before the night starts. Agree with your friends that you�ll look after each other and not leave anyone by themselves, and of course don�t ever drink and drive nor get into a car with someone who has had a drink.�
More information on this topic can be found by visiting www.knowyourlimits.info
For media enquiries contact:
HPA Press Office on Tel: 028 9031 1611.
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