How to stay safer when drinking

The more alcohol people drink on one occasion, the more likely they are to have an injury, make bad decisions or harm themselves or others. For those who choose to drink, plan ahead to drink in moderation to reduce the risk and stay safe.

Tips to reduce the risk of injury and stay safer on a single occasion:

	Limit your drinks to the low-risk alcohol guidelines.
	Track how much you drink and have no more than two drinks per week.
	Switch to water or non-alcoholic drinks in between alcoholic drinks.
	Eat before and while you are drinking
	Watch out for friends and family to help keep them safe.
	Plan a safe way to get home. Call a cab or call a friend to pick you up.
	Be extra careful when drinking alcohol in freezing temperatures. You might know the dangers of the harsh climate in the North, but remember that alcohol lowers your ability to make good decisions and you might take risks that you would never normally take.
	If you drink alcohol, do not drive any vehicle (ATV, skidoo, boat), and do not ride with someone who has been drinking.
	Do not mix alcohol with prescription medications or drugs. Alcohol can make the medications less effective or too strong and can cause serious harm.
	Do not drink when there is a chance of accidents or injuries, like using machinery or tools, or if you are out on the land.
	Do not play drinking games where there is “chugging”.
	Do not try to keep up “drink-for-drink” with your friends.

Click here for information on times when ZERO drinking is safest.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol, talk to a friend, family member, counsellor, or Elder, about what you’re going through. For more help click here.

Download resources here.