Stay safe appeal to New Year partygoers
NHS executive medical director provides advice
With the festive holiday party season in full swing, NHS Lanarkshire’s executive medical director is urging residents to stay safe.
New Year is a time to celebrate with family, friends and relatives – but the celebrations can also see people drinking more than usual.
Dr Chris Deighan is stressing the importance of people looking after themselves when they are out with family and friends.
He said: “This is the time of year when many people are out celebrating and we want people to enjoy themselves.
“However, I would ask people to think about their safety, and their health, as they go out.
“It should be a happy and enjoyable time but it can also be a time when you can put yourself at risk of serious harm by drinking too much and not paying attention to you and your friends’ safety when out and about.
“Alcohol and the cold can be a dangerous combination, and contrary to popular belief, going out into the fresh air does not sober you up and alcohol doesn’t ‘heat you up’ when you are cold.
“When you drink alcohol although your face may feel flushed and your skin warmer, your body actually quickly loses heat as the blood is rushing to the skin.
“Your body temperature may fall without you actually realising it, bringing an increased danger of hypothermia.”
Dr Deighan is also urging people in Lanarkshire to stay with friends and look out for each other.
He added: “It is easy to continue with alcoholic drinks all night but consider alternating with soft drinks to help you stay hydrated.
“Also think about how you are getting home.
“If it is by taxi or prearranged transport put aside any money you need to pay for your ride home. And never leave drinks unattended.
“By taking a few safety precautions you and your friends and family can ensure that everyone not only enjoys their evening but also gets home safely.
“Go out and have fun this festive season but make it an evening to remember and not one to forget.”
Anyone needing healthcare advice over the New Year holiday period can find a wealth of information on NHS Lanarkshire’s Winter Hub pages on its website via www.nhslanarkshire.scot. nhs.uk/your-health/winter
Contrary to popular belief, alcohol doesn’t ‘heat you up’ when you are cold
Dr Chris Deighan, NHS