The Christmas and New Year period is a time to celebrate and have fun – but also to remain safe!

To all those celebrating over the coming weeks, take care of yourself and your friends.

Our top tips for safe celebrating are:

• Eat before you go out to reduce the impact of alcohol
• Decide your limit in advance – and stick to it
• Avoid rounds – round buying often means people drink more
• Pace yourself – slow down and take smaller sips, choose smaller measures and alternate between alcoholic and soft drinks
• Know what you’re drinking – stronger drinks or larger pub measures can make keeping track of your intake difficult
• Go for less alcoholic longer drinks – top up spirits with more mixer, drink spritzers or choose shandy rather than beer
• Beware of spiking – do not leave your drink unattended
• Say no to top ups – a repeatedly re-filled glass makes keeping track of your intake difficult
• Never drink and drive – leave the car at home or make sure you have a designated driver

And to keep yourself safe when you leave the bar:

• Stay with your friends and don’t walk home alone – get a taxi
• Keep warm – take a coat to avoid freezing whilst waiting in line for a taxi
• Look after each other – make sure no-one gets isolated from the group particularly if they have been drinking heavily
• Make sure you carry condoms with you if there’s a chance you might need them

If you’re worried about your own or someone else’s drinking, visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/alcohol for information about local advice and support services.