Stay Safe and Celebrate Responsibly
Alcohol Poisoning Prevention Tips for Fourth of July Festivities
6/30/2023
Monica Mynsberge, Aspirus Substance Use Intervention Coordinator
The Fourth of July
is a cherished holiday that brings people together. As we gather for
picnics, barbecues, and firework displays, it is crucial to prioritize alcohol
safety to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration.
Excessive drinking,
including binge drinking, is one of the leading preventable causes of death in
the U.S.
"Alcohol
poisoning is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. It occurs
when a person consumes a dangerous amount of alcohol, leading to toxic levels
in the bloodstream that impair vital functions such as breathing, heart rate,
and consciousness," says Monica Mynsberge, Aspirus Substance Use
Intervention Coordinator.
According to the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are 2,200 alcohol
poisoning deaths each year in the U.S.
Symptoms of alcohol
poisoning include mental confusion, difficulty remaining conscious, vomiting,
seizures, trouble breathing, slow heart rate, clammy skin, dulled responses,
and extremely low body temperature.
To make alcohol
consumption during Fourth of July festivities safer and more memorable for
everyone, follow these health tips:
1. Moderation is Key:
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to impaired judgment, increased
risk-taking, and accidents. Set a limit for yourself and pace your drinking
throughout the day.
- For women, consuming
three or more drinks within a two- to three-hour span is considered binge
drinking.
- For men, consuming
four or more drinks within a sitting is considered binge drinking.
2. Stay Hydrated and
Eat Nutritious Food: Alcohol can dehydrate the body, so make sure to drink
plenty of water and eat nutritious food alongside your alcoholic beverages.
Stay mindful of your body's signals and prioritize hydration to prevent
dehydration and potential health risks.
3. Be a Responsible
Host: If you're hosting a Fourth of July gathering, take responsibility for the
well-being of your guests. Offer a variety of drink options, including
non-alcoholic beverages, and encourage moderation. Never allow alcohol
consumption by minors.
"Be vigilant
and intervene if someone appears to be overly intoxicated, providing them with
alternatives such as water, non-alcoholic drinks, food, and a safe place to
rest. When a person is intoxicated, you should position them on their side with
a pillow behind them to prevent rolling out of this position. This is important
to help prevent choking if the person should vomit. Continue to monitor them to
ensure they are not exhibiting any signs or symptoms of alcohol
poisoning," advises Mynsberge.
4. Plan Transportation
in Advance: Before the festivities begin, make transportation arrangements to
avoid drunk driving. Encourage designated drivers among your group or arrange
alternative transportation options such as rideshares or taxis. Remind everyone
about the importance of responsible decision-making and prioritize the safety
of yourself and others.
5. Firework Safety:
Fireworks and alcohol should never mix. If you plan to handle fireworks during
your Fourth of July celebration, it's crucial to remain sober and clear-headed.
Alcohol impairs coordination and judgment, increasing the risk of accidents and
injuries.
"If you observe
a person showing signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning, don't hesitate to
call 911. Speak to the dispatcher and provide them with a description of what
you've observed. Based on your description, they will send assistance. It's better
to be safe than sorry when it comes to something as severe and deadly as
alcohol poisoning," says Mynsberge.
So, let's raise our
glasses to a fun and safe Fourth of July! Remember, celebrating responsibly
doesn't mean you can't have a great time. Enjoy the festivities, but let's
prioritize safety and take care of ourselves and our loved ones.
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