It's that time of year again: spring break. Whether you are going home or to Alaska, Las Vegas, Mexico or Florida, it is important to be safe while you are gone so you can return back to school safely. Longwood University's Peer Health Educators and the Bacchus Network recom mend the following tips:
1. Always wear your seat belt. Safety first!
2. In sunny areas, be sure to wear sunscreen and SPF lip balm. Limit your time in the sun.
3. In colder areas, make sure you are dressed appropriately. Be sure to know signs and symptoms of frostbite and other cold-related problems.
4. Make a plan to keep you and your friends safe before you go out.
5. Drinking and driving don't mix. Call a friend or taxi for a safe ride.
6. Respect other people's rights. If they choose not to drink, don't pressure them to do so.
7. If a friend is lethargic, unconscious or vomiting, call for help and stay with your friend. Alcohol poisoning is not a situation for guessing.
8. When driving, keep your phone and other distractions out of sight. The text can wait!
9. Be aware of your sexual health. Do not engage in risky behavior, this will increase your risk of sexually transmitted infections. Free condoms are given out in the health clinic and through Peer Health Educators.
10. Get enough sleep, drink enough water and avoid the pain and suffering caused from the misuse of alcohol. Your health is important.
11. Be aware of your surroundings. Look for possible unsafe situations.
12. Remember: the legal drinking age is 21.
Being safe is simple and necessary for a fun spring break. Remember the W.A.S.T.E.D. acro nym when drinking. W= Watch your drink, never leave it unattended; A= Alternate alcoholic beverages with water; S= Sip on your drink, never chug; T= Think about your ride home; E= Eat before you drink; and D= Do not drink past your limit.
W.A.S.T.E.D. is a great acronym to remember when you go out and drink because it and can instill safe drinking habits.
For more information go to: http://www.bacchusnetwork.org/safe-spring-break.html and http://www.longwood.edu/health/16430.htm.
Photo Courtesy: SDIC
