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20 December 2005: No 70/05

RESPONSIBLE DRINKING DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON

Responsible drinking is one of the issues that needs to be emphasised to prevent the ever-increasing number of deaths due to vehicle accidents in the SANDF.

During the month of November 2005 alone, a total of thirteen soldiers died in vehicle accidents.

This is in strict contrast with the total of two to three soldiers per month who died in vehicle accidents during the FY 2003/4.

The number of passengers injured is usually tenfold more, with all the legal and social aspects involved!

During the festive season one can expect numerous parties, functions, and eating and drinking with family and friends.

Drinking includes the use of alcohol, since this is the way many people celebrate.

The question is: What is responsible drinking?

It takes the human body one hour and 15 minutes (75 minutes) to metabolise one beer, or one glass of wine, or one tot of rum, or of vodka, brandy or whiskey. Please note: Black coffee or a cold shower will not speed up the process!

When am I fit to drive?

When you leave a party or function multiply the number of drinks you had by 75 minutes to know how long it will take you to sober up and be fit to drive a vehicle.

Here is further good advice:

For every alcoholic drink you take, drink a glass of water or soft drink to reduce the amount of alcohol you drink and to prevent a hangover, which is largely caused by dehydration – that is not taking in enough water.

Protect your family and friends against serious injuries this festive season by means of responsible drinking. They and you are worth it.

Any enquiries in this regard may be forwarded to SAMHS, Joint Directorate OHS, tel (012) 671-5536, 671-5510, 671-5531 and 671-5313