With Maltese youngsters topping the European statistics for alcohol consumption, the government has rolled out a campaign to try to curb drink-driving during this festive season.
The campaign – Drink, Drive, Lose a Life – is aimed at highlighting the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and is a collaborative effort between four ministries, agencies and NGOs.
Police have started increasing spot checks and on Sunday night stopped seven drivers in the St Julian’s area who were found over the alcohol limit.
A police spokesman said drivers who failed the breathalyser test risked having their licence revoked and face a fine up to €1,100.
Health Minister Godfrey Farrugia urged the country to “drink responsibly,” adding that although the hospital emergency was well prepared, people admitted to the A&E for alcohol-related accidents this time of the year always surged.
He also warned against drinking alcohol when taking medicines.
Social Solidarity Minister Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca warned that alcohol consumption was causing a psychosocial affect.
“Alcohol increases domestic violence, aggressiveness and gambling,” she said, announcing the first draft of the national alcohol policy had been finalised and was waiting for Parliament’s approval.
According to statistics from the European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs, Maltese 16-year-olds were drinking more alcohol than their European counterparts.
“Eighty-six per cent of our 16-year-olds drink alcohol, which is more than the EU average of 79 per cent,” Ms Coleiro Preca said, adding that among 36 European countries, Malta had the sixth-highest rate of 16-year-old alcohol consumers.
Dr Jonathan Joslin, from Mater Dei Hospital’s emergency department, had one crucial piece of advice: “Do not put your husband or your wife and your kids at risk.
“The best gift is that we wake up on Christmas Day with the family.”
In a statement, substance abuse agency Sedqa stressed everyone should know the consequences of excessive alcohol consumption.
“Drivers should not consume any alcohol at all. Many people still risk their lives and that of others.
“Alcohol and driving is a dangerous mix that has affected many lives and will continue to so unless we act responsibly.”
Effects of alcohol on driving
Driving with excessive speed and less caution.
Difficulty in calculating the distance between their car and the bumper in front of them.
Problems in distinguishing traffic light colours.
Failure to notice pedestrians.
Lack of concentration.
How to avoid drink-driving
Take a lift.
Tell someone to pick you up.
Sleep at a hotel.
Use public transport.
Call a taxi.
Assign a designate driver.