Spring break should be fun, but for many, it ends in a trip to the ER because of bad decisions made while on vacation. Drugs, alcohol, and a party atmosphere can fuel a sense of invincibility that quickly evaporates beneath the flashing blue and red lights of an ambulance. As spring break nears, paying close attention to the dangers and avoiding people who are engaging in risky behaviors can help people stay safe.
Alcohol and Spring Break
Alcohol is the most common cause of spring break accidents and injuries. Many college students and other vacationers imbibe on beaches and bars, then get behind the wheel or take a stroll down the road. Cities such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and other popular spring break destinations all see spikes in binge drinking, DUI related accidents and arrests, and pedestrian accidents during March and April.
Drugs and Spring Break
Similar to alcohol, the use of illicit narcotics also spikes during spring break. Marijuana, Ecstasy, and many others are readily available. Many vacationers try drugs for the first time during spring break mistakenly believing they are immune to any ill effects. The reality is that individuals who consume these narcotics have diminished focus, coordination, and reasoning skills. When these individuals get behind the wheel, they commit a criminal offense and pose a significant threat to pedestrians and motorists.
Staying Safe on Spring Break
College students, families, and others heading out for vacation during spring break can reduce their risk of a serious accident by proactively taking care of their safety. Monitoring their own alcohol intake, avoiding narcotics, and not getting behind the wheel of a cargo a long way towards reducing the danger. Further, avoiding driving through “party” zones and monitoring the actions of other drivers who may be intoxicated can help people avoid car accidents.
Engaging in high-risk activities such as parasailing, bungee jumping, skydiving, etc. can be fun, but verifying that the company taking them for a joyride is fully licensed, insured, properly trained, keep customers away from hospital beds with broken bones, paralysis, and other serious injuries. If people are injured during spring break, it is important to receive prompt treatment in the vacation city and not wait to see a doctor until they return home.