Drink safe over the festive season and watch out for your mates
Posted by editor (editor) on Dec 24 2009
2009 >>

Holiday revellers are being urged to stay safe and remain in control of their alcohol consumption throughout the festive season.

Minister responsible for liquor, Peter Lawlor MP today appealed for common sense at a time when it’s easy to get carried away in celebration.

“This time every year we see the tragic consequences of unsafe drinking such as an increase in the road toll,” Mr Lawlor said.

“I urge everybody to be responsible this Christmas and to not drink to excess.

“The festive season is about spending quality time with family and friends – not binge drinking and hangovers.”

He also stressed the importance of watching out for friends during festive celebrations.

Tips for taking care of your mates during Christmas celebrations include:

• If you’re going out for a night on the town, either take public transport or make sure there’s a designated driver to get everybody home safely.
• Don’t top up friends’ drinks
• If you’re at a licensed venue, keep an eye on your friends’ drinks and watch for drink spiking
• Avoid drinking in rounds or shouts
• If a friend is becoming intoxicated, encourage them to have water or other non-alcoholic drinks, as well as a bite to eat

Minister Lawlor said the most important safety tip for the festive season was to stay in control and act sensibly.

“This is the season to take a holiday from work, not a holiday from common sense,” he said.

Last changed: Jan 07 2010 at 2:23 PM