Alcohol can have a negative effect on certain neurological processes, such as temperature regulation, sleep, and coordination. For example, moderate amounts of alcohol lower body temperature. Severe intoxication in a cold environment may produce massive, life-threatening declines in temperature (i.e., hypothermia). Many people mistakenly believe that alcohol can help warm them in cold weather. This notion can be especially dangerous for the homeless, for elderly people living in inadequately heated quarters, and for those exposed to prolonged cold temperatures outdoors.
