With Christmas, New Year and the summer holidays fast approaching, Rodney District Council is urging the Rodney community to make sure that drinking doesn't spoil the seasonal fun.
‘It’s important to remember what the holiday season is all about – celebrating and spending time with people we care about. The enjoyment can easily be ruined when people drink too much," says Rodney Road Safety Coordinator, Jacki Dawson.
Over the past five years, alcohol was a factor in 136 serious crashes in the Rodney District.
"With warmer weather, longer sunshine hours and holidays there are lots more opportunities than usual to catch up with friends and family and have a few drinks," says Ms Dawson.
"However, people need to remember that if you drink and drive you are putting your life and other’s lives at risk."
"If you want to enjoy a few drinks over the holidays with friends and family make sure you have considered how you can get home safely – you can organise a sober driver, take a taxi or stay over at someone’s place. That’s the responsible approach to take," she says.
In addition to this, Rodney District Council recommends following these simple tips if you are hosting a party, to make sure all your guests make it home safely.
1. Make sure there are plenty of non- alcoholic and low alcohol options at events so that people have a choice about what they drink and can take a break from drinking alcohol.
2. Provide substantial types of food – asking people to bring a plate is a great option
3. Watch the size of your drinks. Remember a standard drink is one small wine glass (100ml) – not a bucket.
For more information and ideas visit www.alac.org.nz.
If you’re worried about your drinking or the drinking of someone you care about, help is available on 0800 787 797.
More information
Contact: Jacki Dawson
Rodney Road Safety Coordinator
Phone: 0800 426 5169
Email: jacqueline.dawson@rodney.govt.nz