Summer Safety

May 2006

The summer is upon us – the season of sun, fun, and relaxation. The season brings with it parties and gatherings, along with more opportunities than usual to drink alcohol with family and friends. While you’re out enjoying the warm weather, don’t forget to protect yourself and your children from the summer’s potential hazards. There are more injuries during the summer months than during any other time of the year and the majority of these injuries can be avoided. Despite what you may think, many people responsible for drunk-driving mishaps are not long-term alcohol abusers. They are social or irregular drinkers.

Here are some tips to see you through the festive season with your health intact:

 Drink only if YOU want to; don’t let others dictate your choice. Learn how to say no and encourage your friends to be supportive.

• Keep active. Don’t just sit down and drink all night. If you keep active, you will drink less and be more aware of your level of intoxication.
• Keep out of “chugging” contests or other drinking “games”.
• Try to alternate a non-alcoholic alternative with your alcoholic drinks, or try a non-alcoholic cocktail for a refreshing change.
• Remember that some beverages will contain more than one standard drink; take this into consideration when calculating your intake for the evening, particularly if you are driving.
• Try to eat a substantial meal to increase your tolerance if you plan on drinking. Salty party snack foods will encourage you to drink more quickly to avoid dehydration.
•  Women should be aware that drinking the same number of drinks as a male counterpart can produce a higher blood alcohol reading in a woman because women generally have proportionately more fat and less body water than men.
• Drink non-alcoholic beverages for the last hour of a party. If you stop drinking before the party is over, you will allow your liver time to burn off some of the alcohol.

While alcohol may be available at most parties this summer, it need not be the focus. Click here for recipes for tasty, non-alcoholic drinks. Please take advantage of these recipes and share them with your colleagues, family, and friends.

The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) of Middlesex County, Inc. wishes you a safe, happy, and healthy summer season.