Words on safety

With New Years celebrations stepping up, local residents should be warned about the dangers of binge drinking and drug using, said Labor candidate for Shellharbour, Lylea McMahon.

Ms McMahon said that during the Christmas and New Year period there is an increase in drug and alcohol related accidents.

Its important to enjoy traditional celebrations, but we are urging people to think ahead, place a limit on the amount they plan to drink before they begin drinking and think about the consequences of using drugs she said.

Partygoers also need to be aware of the dangers of drink spiking with sedatives such as GHB said Ms McMahon.

Ms McMahon said when preparing for a night out, it is important to remember the following tips to stay safe:

Plan your night out and tell people where you are going.

Pace yourself and sip drinks, do not scull

Drink a glass of water between each alcoholic drink

Eat a full meal when celebrating

Designate a driver before having a drink

Never accept a drink from a stranger or leave drinks unattended, particularly if the bottle has been opened.

Always carry enough money for a taxi or a phone call.

One of the most important things to remember is to keep an eye out for friends she said.

Figures from NSW Health indicate around 40 per cent of males and 30 per cent of females report engaging in risk drinking behaviours at any time of the year.

Young men aged between 16 and 24 years are the worst offenders with nearly 50 per cent of those engaging in risk drinking behaviour, Ms McMahon said.

The following table shows a breakdown of risk drinking* by sex and age, taken from the 2005 NSW Adult Health Survey.

For further information visit www.health.nsw.gov.au or contact the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 422 599.

Media contact: Lylea McMahon 0419 418 671