NATIONAL NEWS - With liquor sales now open for private consumption, South African Breweries, have volunteered the following important guidelines for safe and responsible drinking:
Below are seven important tips to follow to trade, buy and drink responsibly during these uncertain times.
Buy only what you need
Alcohol has been for sale at retailers, licensed shebeens and taverns from Monday, 1 June, and can be sold from Monday to Thursday, between 09:00 and 17:00. Plan your trips to the stores well in advance, and don't over-buy. It is critical that shoppers buy responsibly, calmly and in moderation.
Avoid crowds
Where possible use online platforms for purchases and remain at home to avoid waiting in long queues and assist with curbing the spread of the Covid-19 virus through contactless shopping.
Drink in moderation
Consumers must drink responsibly and within reason, in the safety of their homes. Keeping a clear head will mean that we all stay safe and act smartly, and won't put ourselves or those around us at risk.
Line your stomach – enjoy a meal before a beer
Drinking on an empty stomach is a universally bad idea. To moderate your blood alcohol level, have a meal with your alcoholic drinks or eat foods high in protein like meat and cheese before drinking. You'll enjoy your beer more with a little food in your stomach.
Pace yourself – alternate beers with non-alcoholic drinks or water.
By drinking non-alcoholic drinks, such as water and cold drinks, between drinks, you will not only reduce the effects of alcohol but will be able to enjoy your favourite beer for a longer period.
Consume at home
Licensed liquor outlets are allowed to sell alcohol provided all Covid-19 safety protocol is strictly adhered to and that alcohol is not consumed on-site (at the store). So please do purchase your long-awaited beer – but drink it at home.
Don't share drinks and sanitise
Sharing is caring but not during a pandemic. Please do not share glasses, bottles or cans between yourself and others – this is one of the easiest ways the disease can spread. Remember to wash your hands regularly and sanitise the outside of your bottle or cans before drinking from it.
"We all need to do our part and be #ResponsibleTogether, this means that retailers and traders need to abide by the law, and sell alcohol to persons over the age of 18 and implement the Covid-19 safety protocols," says Zoleka Lisa, Vice-President of Corporate Affairs at The South African Breweries.
"Customers have an equally important role to play, so please make sure that you drink in the safety of your own home and not on the streets, or at a friend's house. Remember that it is not safe to socialise just yet, and in doing so, you'd be putting yourself and others at risk."
'We bring you the latest Garden Route, Karoo, Hessequa news'
