Holiday sun and drink don’t mix: Meas

Drinking on your holidays could cause you injury or even land you in prison, an alcohol awareness group warned today.

Mature Enjoyment of Alcohol in Society (Meas) cautioned against the dangers of strong alcohol in high temperatures while abroad.

Meas chief Fionnuala Sheehan advised holidaymakers to take plenty of water and not to swim or play sports after drinking.

“Alcohol dehydrates you, and the heat of the sun makes it worse,” she said.

“Avoid risky situations, especially after a few drinks, like walking along a deserted cliff path at 2am.

“Mixing drink with sports, from volleyball to rock climbing, can lead to injuries. So play it safe. Likewise, midnight swimming and drinking is never advisable.”

Meas also warned that bars abroad often served larger measures of spirits than Irish pubs so just two gin and tonic measures could be the same as four or five at home.

Ms Sheehan added: “When you’re relaxing on the beach, or at a BBQ, lather on the sun lotion. A combination of hangover and sunburn is enough to spoil anyone’s holiday.”

Meas also warned holidaymakers to check the correct drink-drive limits at their destination if they were renting a car.

“Don’t risk spending your holiday behind bars – nominate one amongst the group to be the designated driver before you go out, book a taxi, grab a rickshaw or use public transport,” Ms Sheehan added.

Meas was established in 2002 by the drinks industry to promote moderate alcohol consumption. It has published information guides for summer festivals, students and sportspeople.