Tayside party goers urged to keep safe over the festive season

    THURSDAY, 18 DECEMBER, 2014

    IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tayside party goers urged to keep safe over the festive season

    With the Christmas party season now in full swing, NHS Tayside is issuing a reminder to people to keep safe over the festive period.

    Many people across Tayside will be out and about over the next couple of weeks at Christmas and New Year parties and nights out but with the weather taking a turn for the worse and temperatures dropping below freezing, it is important to keep well wrapped up.

    Party goers should try to wear several thin layers to help keep warm or at least a coat, hat and gloves which can be taken off when inside the pub or party venue. You may be warm indoors but when moving between places or heading home for the night, you could be outside in the freezing conditions for longer than you planned.

    A&E consultant Dr Colin Donald said, “We want everyone to enjoy the festive season safely.

    “It is essential during the cold winter months that people take extra care on nights out. Remember to wrap up warm and make sure you organise transport to get home at the end of the night.

    “Alcohol can inhibit your awareness of the cold and this can lead to accidents and potential hypothermia.

    “Be aware of how much you are drinking and the number of alcohol units contained within different drinks. It is also important that you do not drive until you are certain you have no alcohol left in your body.

    “Wearing high heeled shoes and drinking alcohol can also lead to slips and trips when roads and pavements are icy so take extra care when walking.”

    Contact:

    Louise Wilson

    NHS Tayside Communications

    (01382) 740718

18 December 2014