Summer is here. Hot weather and cold beer! Drinking responsibly is an important practice to ensure your health and well-being.  We need to be extra careful in the hot weather, as alcohol is a dehydrator.

Here are some guidelines.

• Set limits: Determine the number of drinks you’ll have before you start drinking and stick to it.
• Know your effects from alcohol: According to CDC guidelines moderated drinking is 12 oz. beer, 4 oz. of wine, 1.5 oz. of 80-proof spirits, or 1 oz. of 100-proof spirits.
• Moderate drinking for men:  Up to 2 standard drinks per day. Weekly limit: Up to 14 standard drinks per week.
• Moderate drinking for women: 1 standard drink per day. Weekly limit:  7 standard drinks per week.
• Avoid drinking too quickly. Sip your drink slowly and take breaks between alcoholic beverages.  Drink water, to stay hydrated.
• Plan your transportation: If you’re going out drinking, make sure you have a plan for getting home safely.
• Avoid drinking alone. Social drinking does not mean drinking alone.
• Prioritize your well-being. Eating a meal before drinking, getting enough sleep, and taking breaks from drinking, when you start to feel overwhelmed. Remember drinking alone greatly increases the potential risks.

Remember, responsible drinking involves making conscious choices to prioritize your health and safety. It’s important to know your limits, take care of yourself, and be aware of the potential risks associated with more than recommended weekly average.