Discover ideas for safer consumption
Planning to drink less and to have non-alcoholic drinks available will help you and your guests stay safer. Here are some ideas:
- Choose versions of your favourite drinks that contain less alcohol, such as light beer, a low-alcohol content wine, or create a wine spritzer using half wine, half mineral water.
- Alternate with a non-alcoholic drink such as water, juice or sparkling soda. These will help counter the dehydrating effects of alcohol.
- Eat a variety of foods and snacks between alcoholic beverages
- Be motivated to drink less by the fact that reducing the amount of alcohol you drink may save you money, improve your mental health and support you in getting a good night's sleep.
Help others drink less when hosting parties
You can create a low-risk environment for your guests by taking responsibility for when and how much alcohol is available at your event, while still ensuring your guests have a great time. Some things to consider when planning your party:
- Avoid having alcohol as the focus of the party by planning some alcohol-free activities
- Provide food from start to finish
- Provide plenty of water and other non-alcoholic drinks
- Avoid ‘topping up' other people's drinks for them
- Ensure everyone has a safe ride home
Try mocktails and alcohol-free options
Alcohol-free days don’t have to be fun-free days. Mocktails - non-alcoholic cocktails - taste good and help you drink less alcohol. They are easy to make and great for parties. Try the mocktails from Fraser Health, or look online for options that contain no alcohol.Want to learn more about alcohol and health? Visit our main alcohol page at www.swpublichealth.ca/alcohol.