Scots urged to avoid drinking excess alcohol amid hot weather warning

Scots are being urged to avoid drinking excess alcohol when temperatures soar next week.

A resilience meeting has been held by the Scottish Government as an amber warning was issued by the Met Office for extreme heat.

The warning covers southern parts of Scotland from midnight on Monday, July 18 until 11.59pm on Tuesday, July 19.

Advice issued by the Government includes staying hydrated and drinking plenty of fluids.

Guidance also states that people should stay indoors when the sun is at its hottest between 11am and 3pm, to eat cold foods with high water content such as salads and fruits, and taking a cool shower, bath or body wash.

People are also told they can sprinkle water over skin or clothing, or to keep a damp cloth on the back of their neck.

For the first time temperatures of 40°C have been forecast in the UK and the first ever Red warning for exceptional heat has been issued.

Find out more in our press release 👇
— Met Office (@metoffice) July 15, 2022

Justice secretary Keith Brown, lead Minister for resilience, underlined the importance for people to look out for vulnerable family, friends and neighbours.

“We are aware of the weather warnings currently in place and are receiving regular updates from partners including the Met Office and emergency services,” he said.

“Our resilience arrangements have been activated and stand ready at all times to coordinate a response to severe weather issues where required. We will continue to closely monitor developments.

“When temperatures increase, it’s important to monitor forecasts and follow public health advice, including staying hydrated and drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding excess alcohol.”

Brown continued: “I would also urge people to look out for vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, as older people, those with underlying conditions and those living alone may struggle to keep cool and hydrated.

“Water safety incidents and drownings increase in hot weather and people should be aware of the dangers and use supervised beaches and pools when possible – follow the Water Safety Code and in an emergency call 999.”