Fake booze: Council issues warning

Bryan Edgar, Head of Health and Built Environment at Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council said, “Council wishes everyone to have a safe and enjoyable Christmas. To do so we ask everyone to be responsible over the Christmas period by being mindful of the misuse and dangers of alcohol and respectful of their environment.

“The Food Standards Agency has recently released a campaign ‘Fake Booze – Dead Cheap’ highlighting the dangers of counterfeit alcohol which is often found to contain chemicals such as anti-freeze, screen wash or nail polish remover. Consuming these type of chemicals can lead to blindness, a coma or fatal health problems.

“If in doubt on how to spot and avoid fake alcohol, remember the 4 P’s. Product; watch out for fake versions as well as brand names you have never heard of, Price; if the price looks too good to be true it probably is, Packaging; watch out for poor quality labelling including spelling mistakes and tampered bottles, Place; buy from a reputable off-licence premise. Don’t take a risk!”

In a bid to prevent illicit alcohol sales within the Borough, Environmental Health Officers have been inspecting local premises and carrying out authenticity checks on vodka. Council aims to ensure the Borough’s residents live in a safe, enjoyable environment particularly over the festive period.

Council is also asking the public to respect the people and environment of the Borough and be aware of having house parties and causing a noise nuisance to neighbours, which can result in a noise abatement notice. In addition, please note littering in public spaces attracts a fixed penalty of £80, this includes cigarette butts.

For more information about the ‘Fake Booze – Dead Cheap’ campaign please visit fakebooze.food.gov.uk. For further information please your local Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Office.