During the Christmas and New Year period there is an increase in festivities, parties, family gatherings, work functions and braais.

While it’s a great time of year, it can also be a time of excess, especially when it comes to alcohol. The festive season is a good time to reflect on the way you drink.

Here are some tips to implement during the festive season:
• For women who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, not drinking is the safest option.
• Plan some alcohol-free days, grab a juice, mineral water or iced tea instead.
• Keep count of your standard drinks by pouring your own drinks.
• Eat before, and while, you are drinking
• Alternate alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks
• Plan activities for your family that don’t involve alcohol. Show your children that alcohol doesn’t have to be part of every social situation to have a good time.
• Avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Avoid combining alcohol with energy drinks.
• Drink slowly and try drinks with lower alcohol content.
• Remember that many drink serving sizes are often more than one standard drink, which means your Blood Alcohol Content may be rising more quickly than you think.
• If you are driving to the party, carpool with a few friends and decide who will be the designated driver at the start of the night.
• Think about how much money you’re prepared to spend and stick to a budget.
• Don’t drink and drive.
• Organise a designated driver when going out.
• Be sure to bring enough money for a taxi.
• Never get into a car if the driver has been drinking or taking drugs.

The AA Estcourt branch hosts meetings every Tuesday at Forderville Primary School from 7pm to 8pm. Contact Desigan on 082 849 3014.
The AA Winterton branch hosts meetings every Thursday at the Springfield Church opposite the police station from 7pm to 8pm. Contact Dolly on 071 688 5330 or Virgilo on 079 688 0432.