Excessive drinking and summer activities don’t mix. Drinking impairs both physical and mental abilities, and it also decreases inhibitions—which can lead to tragic consequences on the water, on the road, and in the great outdoors. In fact, research shows that up to 70 percent of all water recreation deaths of teens and adults involve the use of alcohol.
If you’re going away for sun, sea and fun, have a great time - just try and remember these simple tips:-
- If you travel by air, especially on long flights don’t be tempted to drink too much, even if it is free! Water and soft drinks are a better choice as both alcohol and altitude dehydrate you.
- Because alcohol dehydrates you, and the heat of the sun makes it worse, drink at least a litre of water a day.
- Mixing drink with sports, from volleyball to rock climbing, can lead to injuries. So play it safe. Likewise, midnight swimming and drinking is never advisable.
- Bars abroad often serve larger measures of spirits than at home so just two vodkas could be the same as four or five at home.
Party planning
Even if you aren’t going away you may want to enjoy the hopefully good weather by having a party with friends and family.
When you’re having a party, you want your friends to have a great time, naturally. However, you want to be a responsible host too, so here are some simple tips to make sure you all have a good time without things getting out of hand.
If alcohol is served:-
- keep an eye on the size of measures – don’t be too generous and try to stick to pub measures and smaller glasses.
- offer plenty of water and alcohol free alternatives.
- serve food - it really helps to soak up the alcohol.
- Watch the strength of mix in home made cocktails – use plenty of ice and mixers.