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CHAPTER 13 DRUG AWARENESS
What Is Alcohol?
What is Alcohol? What does Alcohol do? Alcohol and Accidents
Many people say that alcohol gives them energy and Even a small amount of
Alcohol is made when a fungus makes them feel happy and talkative. In fact, alcohol slows alcohol can reduce co-ordination
called yeast is mixed with sugary down the brain and gives a false sense of confidence. At and slow down a person’s
things. Alcohol is a poison which first people may feel relaxed, but as they drink more they reactions, affect their judgement
can harm the human body.
will begin to lose control of their body or emotions, which of speed, distance, risk and cause
The alcohol that people drink is is why so many people consume more alcohol than they an accident. In British hospitals one in three
a clear liquid called ethyl intend to do. injured people brought
alcohol or ethanol. Adults into casualty departments
drink it in beers, cider, wines and have been drinking. Road
spirits. Other drinks include accidents after drinking
alcopops which often have a are the biggest cause of
high alcohol content and can death in young men.
appear attractive to young
people. There are other types of Health The Law
alcohol which people cannot
drink. They are used to make When people drink alcohol, it goes from the stomach into • At 14 you can go into a
things such as shoe polish and the bloodstream and the blood carries it to the brain. Too bar with an adult, but you
car de-icer sprays. much alcohol can often harm the body. The government cannot buy or drink alcohol.
advises that pregnant women should avoid drinking alcohol. • At 16 you may drink beer,
A percentage of people who drink alcohol become addicted cider, perry or porter in a pub,
to it, although not everyone chooses to drink. Religion, work but only with a meal.
reasons and even medical problems can affect a person’s • At 18 you may buy alcohol.
decisions not to drink. Alcohol is measured in units. • Cyclists must not ride when under the influence
of drink or drugs, including medicine.
Alcohol Units
1 • Drinking and driving is an extremely dangerous
⁄2 a pint of standard beer or lager 1
1 combination - each year thousands of drivers
⁄2 a pint of strong lager 2 are fined, lose their licences and some end up
1
⁄2 a pint of cider 2 in prison. The Highway Code says do not drink
1 small glass of wine 1 and drive as it will seriously affect your
1 measure of a spirit e.g. whisky 1 judgement and abilities.
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