New Years Eve drinkers are being warned to stay away from fake vodka as the side effects could cost them their life.
Bottles of counterfeit vodka were seized by councils from home-based sellers, shops and even some pubs in the run-up to Christmas.
The imitation booze was revealed to contain industrial strength levels of alcohol and the most extreme side effects include blindness, kidney or liver problems and in extreme cases, death.
Toxins including chloroform, anti-freeze and ethyl acetate were found in the bottles.
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Party-goers are being urged to look out for tell-tale signs the alcohol is fake.
Some of the warning signs include unfamiliar brand names, crooked labels, spelling mistakes, very low prices, different fill levels in bottles of the same brand and sediment in the liquid.
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Revellers being served vodka in pubs, bars and clubs should be aware the fake vodka can often smell of nail varnish.
Anyone caught selling the illegal alcohol this party season faces prosecution and losing licenses.
They can also face fines of up to £5,000 and be jailed for up to 10 years.
The Local Government Association (LGA), which represent councils in England and Wales, told shoppers to avoid rogue retailers and pubs selling alcohol at slashed prices, as it could be counterfeit.
Party-goers should stick to reputable outlets and stay vigilant when buying bottles of vodka.
Cllr Morris Bright, of the LGA, said: Its appalling that rogue traders selling illegal alcohol are willing to play roulette with the health and wellbeing of their customers by prioritising quick profits above safety.
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We want people to enjoy their New Years Eve celebrations, but anyone buying alcohol needs to look out for signs it could be fake because it could leave them seriously ill and, in extreme cases, cost them their life.
He said raids are stepped up over the festive period as rogue sellers pop up looking to exploit demand.
Simon Blackburn, of the LGA, said: Everyone likes a bargain, especially at this time of year, but drinking cheap, fake alcohol could seriously harm your health and even kill you, so people should avoid it all costs.
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Trading Standards teams at councils across the country have been cracking down on businesses selling illegal, fake alcohol and we will continue to target rogue outlets.
Anyone who thinks they have had a fake alcoholic drink is urged to seek medical attention and contact their council.
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