THURSDAY, 7 DECEMBER, 2023

Picture attached: Campaign image for staying safe this party season

Smarty says don’t let the party turn sour – stay safe this festive season!

As the Christmas party season gets into full swing, NHS Tayside’s winter health guru Smarty the penguin is reminding people to make sure they stay safe over the festive period.

Many people across Tayside will be out and about over the next few weeks at Christmas and New Year parties and nights out. In amongst all the fun and festivities, it’s important to take extra care when out and about at this time of year to stop the party turning sour.

Smarty said, “With cold and wet conditions forecast it’s best to wear several thin layers to help keep warm or at least a coat, hat and gloves which can be taken off when inside. You may be warm indoors but when moving between places or heading home for the night, you could be outside in the cold for longer than you planned. Remember to wrap up warm and make sure you organise transport to get home at the end of the night.

“Take extra care if you are walking in high heeled shoes and drinking alcohol, and remember to try walking like a penguin to avoid slips and trips on icy streets.”

NHS Tayside’s clinical director for winter Dr William Anderson added, “Alcohol can inhibit your awareness of the cold and this can lead to accidents and potential hypothermia so please be aware of how much you are drinking and try having some soft drinks throughout the night. It’s also important that you don’t drive until you are certain you have no alcohol left in your body, you can still be over the limit the following day so please don’t risk it.”

“With illnesses like flu, norovirus and COVID-19 circulating, it is also important to protect yourself and others against these viruses. Get your winter vaccinations if eligible, and make sure you wash your hands and clean surfaces regularly.

“Remember, if you are feeling unwell please stay at home and don't risk passing on illness to your friends, family and colleagues.”

You can get more information and advice on staying well this winter at www.keepwellinwinter.scot.nhs.uk or by following @NHSTayside on Facebook, X and Instagram.

Contact:

Louise Wilson

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740718