Since 2018, the number of alcohol-related incidents in under 18s has risen by 63%, during the same time the number of incidents in 18-30-year-olds has risen by 97%. As part of our summer awareness campaign, we want to warn the public about the dangers of drinking too much, why it’s best to stick together, and what to do if you see someone who has had too much to drink.

We know that warm weather encourages more socialising and the chance to have a drink with friends. However drinking alcohol in the sunshine increases your chances of becoming dehydrated and potentially disorientated, and when we are out having fun, we can often overlook how drunk a person can become and the care they may need.

Firstly, take care when drinking, ensure you alternate with water, and take shade if out drinking during a hot day. Secondly, if you see a friend who has had too much to drink…

…Don’t Walk Away. Being left alone makes a person instantly vulnerable to further dangers, you are the help that they need.

Potential risks of drinking too much alcohol and being left alone in this condition:

· The body will try to get rid of excess alcohol through vomiting. Vomiting leads to risk of choking.

· There is an increased risk of hypothermia as alcohol causes the body temperature to drop.

· Too much alcohol leaves you at risk of falling unconscious, if left alone in this condition, the consequences could be fatal.

What to do?

· When out with friends drinking, stick together and never leave a person to get home on their own. · If you do find a friend in an unresponsive or unconscious state, put them in the recovery position and call 999.