#DRINK SMART|#EASTER WITH CARE| #BEER CULTURE
Easter is one of those special times where everything comes together – faith, family, friends, chocolate eggs, and good food. Whether you’re heading to a big family braai, church service, or just relaxing with your favourite people, it’s all about joy and connection. And part of that joy means celebrating responsibly – especially when alcohol’s in the mix.
Here’s the real talk: South Africa sees a sharp rise in road crashes over the Easter weekend every year. In 2024, we saw 335 road accidents over Easter – a big jump from 252 the year before. That’s a tough stat to hear, and behind those numbers are real families and real heartbreak. The cause? Often it’s drinking and driving.
Even small amounts of alcohol can impact your body more than you think. A single drink can start slowing down your reaction time and clouding your judgment. According to North-Western Medicine, a BAC (blood alcohol content) of just 0.01% to 0.05% can already mess with your ability to drive. And once you’re at 0.08% or higher, things like blurred vision and delayed motor skills kick in – definitely not what you want behind the wheel.
That’s why this Easter; it’s time to drink smart. Here’s how you can keep things fun without risking it all:
- Know your limits and stick to them.
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or juice – your future self will thank you.
- Eat before or while drinking – it helps your body process alcohol slower.
- Never pressure others to drink, and don’t let anyone shame you for skipping the booze.
- Plan ahead – have a designated driver, use an e-hailing app, or arrange a lift.
Luckily, we’re not doing this alone. Organisations across SA are stepping up:
- BASA (Beer Association of South Africa) continues to promote responsible drinking through retailer training, awareness campaigns, and partnerships with government and NGOs. The association also added its voice and support to the JMPD Easter Road Safety campaign launched on 17 April.
- Heineken Beverages, the Department of Transport, National Liquor Traders, and JMPD are spreading the “Get Home Safe Mzansi” message.
- South African Breweries (SAB) is taking things up a notch with its SAB Sharp platform, focused on promoting smart drinking habits and working with law enforcement to conduct roadblocks and breathalyzer tests through Alcohol Evidence Centres.
Parents – your role is huge too. Easter gatherings often involve alcohol, and younger people might feel tempted to experiment. Have open, honest conversations about alcohol. Talk about the risks, set boundaries, and remind them: being smart with drinking is something to be proud of.
As Charlene Louw, BASA’s CEO, puts it:
“Drinking responsibly isn’t about missing out. It’s about showing care for yourself and your community. It’s about being proud to say, ‘I’ve had enough.’”
South Africa needs a cultural shift – one where strength isn’t measured by how much you can drink, but by your ability to make smart, safe choices. So this Easter, let’s enjoy the good times with balance. Let’s make memories that don’t end in regret. Let’s celebrate like a bunny, and sip like a mouse.
Because real fun is safe fun.
Because getting home safe is a vibe.
#DrinkSmartSA | #EasterWithCare | #BeerCulture
INFO SUPPLIED.
