Know… when not to drink

Drinking more than the recommended limit can be harmful, but there are also times when it’s better not to drink at all:

  • When driving. There is NO safe limit for drinking and driving. Never ever drink and drive. Also remember that someone who drinks a lot in the evening may still have alcohol in their bloodstream the next morning.
    For more information on this visit the DOE Road Safety website at www.roadsafetyni.gov.uk/index/publicity/drinkdrivingportal.htm

  • Pregnant woman
  • During pregnancy. The exact lower level of alcohol that may cause harm to the unborn child is not known, so it is best to stop altogether during pregnancy. If you do decide to drink, limit yourself to no more than one or two units of alcohol once or twice a week, and avoid getting drunk. Couples who are trying to get pregnant should cut down on their alcohol as alcohol can affect both the egg and the cells which produce sperm.

  • When on medication.

  • Before or when operating machinery. Alcohol slows our reaction times, affects vision and balance, and makes bodily movements harder to control. Avoid activities that require physical coordination or quick response.

  • When working with electrical equipment or ladders.

  • When taking part in potentially risky activities such as swimming and other competitive sports.