Sports Medicine Archive

Health Tip:

Spring Break:
Avoid the Binge

Whether you’re off to South Beach or South Padre, it’s likely that you or others you are with will have plenty of opportunities to drink alcohol. If you're going to drink during Spring Break, it's very important that you take precautions. Intoxicated students are targeted for both theft and physical assault, so do not underestimate the need to take serious precautions to protect yourself.

Many students binge drink during Spring Break; it has become a big part of the experience for many and it's what gets students into trouble the most.

The safest approach is to not binge drink and to know your limit with alcohol. We each have a point where the lousy effects of alcohol outweigh the fun effects. If you believe you’re going to drink too much, always use the buddy system for your protection.

Here are some tips to help ensure a fun and safe Spring Break:

• Make sure you know the signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning.
• Do not drink and drive, ever. You know better.
• Be aware of all local laws and regulations involving alcohol. A night in jail is probably not on your “to do” list.
• Intoxication greatly increases a woman's chance of being raped. If you drink, always rely on the buddy system and be very careful. Always keep an eye on your drink.

So remember, Spring Break is a time for great fun and relaxation. Don’t ruin yours by binge drinking and the negative behaviors that goes along with it. Have a good time and be safe. Drink in moderation and watch out for each other.