Warm weather, sun and alcohol risks prompt Twelfth holiday health advice: Look after yourself & each other

Thousands of people heading to Twelfth of July parades, family celebrations or just enjoying the summer break are being urged to protect themselves from the sun, stay hydrated and think carefully before drinking alcohol if they are taking medication, as Northern Ireland prepares for a hot and sunny week ahead.

With prolonged periods expected outdoors, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding people to take simple precautions against sunburn, dehydration and heat-related illness.

At the same time, addiction charity ASCERT is warning that even small amounts of alcohol can interact with many commonly prescribed medicines, increasing the risk of serious side effects.

Stay safe in the sun

The PHA says protection from the sun is especially important when the UV index reaches three or higher, even on days that feel cool or appear cloudy.

People attending outdoor events are advised to seek shade between 11am and 3pm, when ultraviolet rays are at their strongest, and to cover exposed skin with suitable clothing.

A broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses offering 100% UV protection are also recommended. Sunglasses should carry a CE mark or meet British Standard BS EN ISO 12312-1.

Sunscreen should have a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and a UVA rating of four or five stars.

An adult needs around six teaspoons of sunscreen to cover the body evenly, and it should be reapplied regularly, particularly after sweating or spending long periods outdoors.

The PHA also reminds people that sunburn is not always obvious. Skin that becomes pink or red may already be burned, while people with darker skin may instead notice tenderness, irritation or itching.

Babies under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight wherever possible. Children over six months should use SPF 30 or SPF 50 sunscreen with a minimum UVA rating of four stars.

With temperatures expected to remain high throughout the week, people are encouraged to drink water or other non-alcoholic drinks regularly and to check on older relatives, neighbours and anyone who may be particularly vulnerable to the heat.

Alcohol and medication can be a dangerous combination

Alongside the warm weather advice, ASCERT is urging anyone taking prescription or over-the-counter medicines to check whether they can safely drink alcohol before joining in weekend celebrations.

The charity warns that even small amounts of alcohol can interact with certain medicines, increasing drowsiness, dizziness, impaired judgement and slower reaction times. In more serious cases, combining alcohol with some medications may contribute to breathing difficulties or an overdose.

More than 46 million prescription items were dispensed in Northern Ireland during 2025, according to official figures cited by ASCERT. Around 11.4 million of these were medicines affecting the central nervous system, including treatments for depression, anxiety, pain and sleeping difficulties.

Gary McMichael, Chief Executive of ASCERT, said:

“Many people using prescribed medication do not realise that alcohol can change the way some medicines work.

“Even small amounts of alcohol can increase side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness and slower reaction times, making everyday situations much more hazardous.”

People taking either prescription or over-the-counter medicines are advised to read the patient information leaflet and follow guidance provided by their GP or pharmacist rather than assuming a medicine is safe to combine with alcohol.

Mr McMichael added:

“The July bank holiday is a time when many people will socialise with family and friends, and alcohol is often part of those celebrations.

“We want people to enjoy the weekend, but to do so safely by understanding how alcohol may interact with any medication they are taking.”

He continued:

“Taking a few moments to check your medication before having a drink is a simple step that could prevent an avoidable accident or medical emergency.

“Making informed choices helps protect not only your own health, but also the safety and wellbeing of those around you.”

Plan ahead if you’re drinking

The PHA is also encouraging anyone who plans to drink alcohol to decide on a sensible limit before celebrations begin and stick to it.

Stephanie Hanlon, Regional Lead for Substance Use at the PHA, said:

“Many people will be making plans to meet up with their friends and family to celebrate over the bank holiday weekend.

“We are encouraging them to keep an eye on their alcohol intake should they choose to drink.”

She said alcohol is a powerful drug that can affect both health and personal safety.

“By setting a plan, you can avoid drinking too much, which has been shown to have adverse effects on our health and safety.

“It can cause damage to the liver, heart, brain and stomach and over-indulging in alcohol can also affect relationships and spoil the holiday for you, your family and friends.”

Ms Hanlon added:

“Remember, you don’t need alcohol to have a good time, but if you do decide to drink, know your limits and support your friends and family to know their limits too.

“It can be difficult when you feel under pressure in a group to have ‘just one more’, but keep an eye on what you’re drinking, let others know that you’re sticking to it and that can help.”

Look after yourself — and each other

Health officials are advising people to eat a substantial meal before drinking alcohol, alternate alcoholic drinks with water and consider low or zero-alcohol alternatives.

Anyone heading out should also arrange transport home before drinking begins, while friends are encouraged to stay together throughout the day and look out for one another. Anyone who has had too much to drink should not be left alone or allowed to wander off.

The PHA also warns that mixing alcohol with other drugs can be toxic and dangerous.

Ms Hanlon said:

“If you or one of your friends have taken any drugs and feel unwell, don’t wait, get help.”

Whether you’re watching a parade, attending a community event or spending time with family this July holiday, health organisations say a few simple precautions—using sunscreen, drinking plenty of water, checking medication before drinking alcohol and planning a safe journey home—can help ensure the Twelfth is remembered for all the right reasons.