Don’t drink beer, New Yorkers told

Mary Besset, New York City’s health commissioner under Mayor Bill de Blasio, has told the public not to enjoy a cold beer during the city’s ongoing heatwave.

A New Yorker attempts to stay cool during the current heatwave sweeping through the city (Photo: Flickr)

As temperatures in New York reach a scorching 37°C this week, the commissioner told people to forgo an enjoyable cold beer in the sunshine because it increases the risk of dehydration.

“If you work outdoors, we’ve heard how important it is to stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol, caffeine” she said, according to the New York Observer.

Sitting alongside Mayor Bill de Blasio at an emergency press conference in Brooklyn, she stated, “Water is the best beverage for staying hydrated. Beer is not.”

Some New Yorkers have understandably questioned the nannying approach of the health official, taking to social media to vent their frustration.

A beer sommelier who dubs themselves “The Cervisaphile” insisted that New Yorkers had the right to choose how they would like to spend their time in the sun.

Similarly, Twitter-user Greg Washington gave a stunned response to Besset’s reccomendations.

Way to single out #beer @NYCMayorsOffice! I’m certain that the good people of #NYC can decide for themselves! 🍻🇺🇸👍😎 http://t.co/a10u8yrDBG

— The Cervisaphile (@Cervisaphile) July 21, 2015

Wait, what? “New York City Health Commissioner: No Cold Beer During Heat Wave” http://t.co/HFO17HGTER — Greg Washington (@gregawashington) July 22, 2015