Life Features

Having a few drinks over the weekend? Then you better check out what drinkaware.ie and Irish Water Safety has to say...

You know what this weekend is, right? It’s the August Bank Holiday weekend and that means most of us will be enjoying one whole extra day off work. If you’re planning on heading to the nearest beach or lake with your mates this weekend, then you’re being urged to take extra precautions especially if you’re planning on having a few drinks while you’re there. That’s because drinkaware.ie and Irish Water Safety (IWS) have teamed up to highlight the dangers of mixing alcohol and water based activities.

Never ever drink and dive...

On average, 140 people drown in Ireland every year. Alcohol consumption has been identified as a contributory factor in a number of these cases. That’s why the message to the public this weekend is ‘Never ever drink and dive, or swim, or sail’.

A handy, credit card sized information card is being distributed at locations throughout the country which are popular for water-based activities. So keep an eye out for them this weekend.

The card includes the message ‘Never Ever Drink and Dive or Swim or Sail’ and it also includes helpful information you should remember if you’re having a few pints or cans. It covers what one standard drink is, reminds people that it takes around one hour for the body to eliminate one standard drink and that time is the only cure.

Speaking at the launch Fionnuala Sheehan, drinkaware.ie Chief Executive said, “We are delighted to partner with IWS on this campaign and raise awareness of the dangers of drinking alcohol before getting in or going out on the water.

“It is important that this message is considered not only when getting behind the wheel to drive a car but also when water based activities are being enjoyed.”

So what’s the key advice from drinkaware.ie this weekend?

• Never ever drink and dive or sail or swim…
• A standard drink is equal to a glass of beer / larger or cider (not a pint), or a small glass of wine or a pub measure of spirits.
• It will take your body roughly one hour to get rid of one standard drink. Nothing speeds this up, time is the only cure.
• Enjoy a safe summer swim at lifeguarded waterways, all of which are listed at www.iws.ie.
• If you are on a boat correctly fitting lifejackets with crotch strap should be worn at all times.
• Do not take part in water sports activities without first taking appropriate instruction.