Stay Safe This Summer: Alcohol And Water Sports Don't Mix
By Susan L. Jenkins, BRiDGES
Summer
is here, the temperatures are warm and muggy, and people are heading to the
areas pools, beaches and lakes for summer fun. Many people reach for a cold
beverage during the hot summer weather, and it makes sense to stay hydrated. Remember,
though, that whether you are boating, swimming, water skiing or diving, fun in
the water and alcohol don’t mix. That includes beer. Alcohol impairs judgment,
balance, vision and coordination-not a good combination with water sports.
When
boating, the addition of wind, sun, noise, motion and vibration can intensify
the effects of the alcohol. Collisions on the water are not the only hazards
with boating. Other hazards include falls on board or overboard and stumbling
at the dock causing bruises, cuts and falls.
Drinking
can cause problems with swimming and diving, too. After drinking, individuals can
not accurately judge what is safe and can get themselves into hazardous, even life
threatening situations. A long swim can result in hypothermia as alcohol
reduces the body’s ability to stay warm in the water.
Being
out in the sun all day causes dehydration even when you have been in and around
the water all day. Alcohol, even though it is a beverage, is not the answer to
that problem. In fact, both alcohol and caffeine dehydrate the body. It is
better to pack plenty of water, juices, and non-caffeinated soda for a long day
at the beach.
According
to the American College
of Emergency Physicians,
one half of all fatalities on the water are alcohol related. Remember to keep
yourself, your friends and your family safe this summer. Don’t mix alcohol and
water sports.
