When it comes to summer and enjoying the weather, many people plan for trips to the lake, boating, swimming, barbeques, picnics, and much more. All of these activities can be great ways to unwind and spend quality time with friends and family. However, when summer festivities include alcohol, this can pose some serious safety concerns, especially if you’re near the water.
- Alcohol impairs judgment. You are more apt to make risky decisions and put yourself in dangerous situations. It also slows your reaction time meaning your brain and body won’t be as quick to respond when danger arises.
- Alcohol dehydrates you. With the summer sun beating down, you want to feel refreshed, but alcohol is a diuretic and can end up dehydrating your body even more. This can put you at greater risk for heat stroke and other health problems.
- Alcohol can increase risk of drowning. When your coordination and judgment are impaired, it can make swimming more difficult. You may become disoriented, have trouble breathing, or develop hypothermia due to how alcohol affects your body.
- Alcohol impairs driving. Whether you’re driving a car or a boat, doing so under the influence of alcohol is never a good idea. Intoxicated boaters may not see swimmers in the water or be able to react quickly enough to prevent accidents. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, boat operators are 16 times more likely to be killed in an accident if they’ve had four or five drinks (BAC of 0.1 or higher) than operators who haven’t been drinking at all.
If you’re headed out this summer, leave the alcohol behind. It will create a much safer environment for you and your loved ones as well as others around you. If you’re struggling with alcoholism, Above It All can help you get on track for a more enjoyable summer through treatment and recovery.
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