Spring Break Safety Tips for Students and Families
Spring Break is once again around the corner. This comes, of course, as great news for students and a concern for many parents and all emergency services. For this reason, we cannot overlook the importance of spring break safety tips for students and families.
Spring break season is unfortunately tied to excess partying by college students. It is also a season where young people often experiment with substance abuse. Most of these end more often than desired with a visit to the ER, whereas due to alcohol or drug abuse, injuries, or accidents.
This year, there is another concern still: COVID-19. Even though the CDC is still recommending that people not travel and delay spring break travel until 2022, we expect that many will disregard the recommendations.
With this in mind, it is crucial to at least keep in mind some spring break safety tips:
Safe Travel: Yes, many people have been stuck at home for the past year. Many need a break. If you have decided to travel for spring break, try to come up with a travel plan that will keep you as safe as possible.
Keep in mind these general safety travel tips:
- Do not travel alone if possible,
- If you are driving to your destination, do so during day hours,
- Pick a hotel or Airbnb that is in a safe area,
Additionally, this year, you will also need to consider picking destinations and lodging facilities representing a lower risk of COVID-19. This means try to stay away from hotspots if possible and prefer small hotels or renting vacation homes that follow an adequate cleaning protocol.
COVID-19 Safe: Travel with your bubble, use your facemask, avoid touching your face, stay away from crowds, wash your hands constantly.
Prevent Injuries: Have fun but try to be conscious of the risks and limitations. Avoid taking part in unfamiliar or high-risk activities, especially if you have consumed alcohol or drugs and feel that you are “ok” or “sober enough.”
Protect from STDs: Always carry condoms. Ideally, to protect from sexually transmitted diseases, you should refrain from engaging in sex with strangers altogether, but if you choose to have sex, always use a condom.
Responsible partying: It may seem as though these two words don’t go together, but it IS possible to party responsibly.
Do not attend a party on your own and agree with your friends on staying together and leaving together. If you are drinking alcohol, try doing so slowly, and don’t mix your drinks.
Drink water in between alcoholic drinks. Do not leave your drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers. Do not drink and drive or drink and swim. Stay away from drugs.
Parents: Warn your kids about the risks they face when they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They could potentially become the victims of accidents, sexual assault, abuse, or severe injury.
Ask them to stay in touch and share the details of where they will be staying or if they have a change of plans.
Additional Recommendations
Beware of the Sun and Heat
Remember to apply sunscreen, and reapply every two hours. Avoid being in the sun at peak hours to prevent severe sunburns, heatstroke, and dehydration.
Sport Safety
Use the recommended safety gear when practicing sports or other outdoor activities.
Don’t go swimming alone and never swim while under the influence.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if consuming alcohol or spending time outdoors.
Keep in Touch
It is a good practice to report yourself to a family member or friend every morning and night, a brief text message letting them know you are safe goes a long way.
Do not wander alone to unknown locations. If you decide to do so, let someone know where you plan to go and when you should be returning.
Always carry an extra phone battery or portable recharge device with you as well as a bit of emergency cash, a copy of your license or passport, and emergency contact information.
When to Visit the ER
- Prolonged loss of consciousness for any reason
- Fractures
- Eye irritation or swelling
- Major head or face injuries
- Alcohol poisoning (severe headache, vomiting)
- Fever
- Covid-19 symptoms
- Confusion or changes in mental state
- Difficulty walking
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- If you have been involved in a serious car accident
- If you have suffered sexual abuse (report to 911)
If you are in Plano, Texas, PrestigeER has a 24-hour first-class emergency medical service 365 days a year. Call 855-799-6906 you will receive prompt service from specialized physicians.
Enjoy your spring break safely!
