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Alert: Substance use during summer months

Health Canada recognizes that Canadians may choose to consume alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs while attending events, festivals and other gatherings in the summer months. While the safest option is to not consume these substances, being aware of the risks can help reduce the potential harms.


  • Do not drive after having consumed alcohol, cannabis or other drugs. Decide who will be the designated driver before you consume any of these substances, or take a taxi, public transportation or walk.
  • Do not get into a car if you suspect the driver has consumed alcohol, cannabis or other drugs, and ensure the driver does not continue driving.
  • Avoid mixing substances such as alcohol, cannabis and other drugs. The results can be unpredictable and dangerous.
  • Illegal drugs often contain other dangerous substances, such as highly toxic opioids like fentanyl and carfentanil, which can lead to overdose and death.
  • Do not leave someone alone if they seem ill. Stay with them and immediately call for help.
  • To buy, possess or use cannabis and alcohol, you must be of legal age (18 or 19 or older, depending on your province or territory). It is illegal to buy, possess or use other drugs that have not been prescribed to you.