The time for spring break is quickly approaching. While having fun and taking a break from the everyday grind is the goal of spring break, without planning and preparation, your spring break could go wrong with potentially lasting consequences. Whether you venture to the beach, take a cruise, or opt for cooler temperatures at a ski resort, safety should be a top priority for you and your friends.
Unfortunately, many college students and young adults fail to recognize that a spring break trip is often an excuse for poor decision-making that can lead to accidents, arrests, injuries, and even death. The obvious BEST advice for staying safe on a spring break trip is to use common sense. Three main ways to avoid a spring break personal injury are to 1) plan transportation in advance 2) utilize a buddy system and 3) drink responsibly.
For more concrete tips, we’ve compiled a list of spring break safety tips categorized here:
ALCOHOL SAFETY:
There’s no doubt that alcohol consumption plays a role in many spring breakers’ festivities. While it’s okay to let loose a little, remember to drink responsibly. Here are a few alcohol-related tips to avoid a potential injury or unfortunate incident:
- Drink plenty of water – Drinking alcohol in the sun and heat causes dehydration more quickly than normal. Relaxing in the hot tub with alcoholic beverages can accelerate dehydration as well, so it’s essential to hydrate with water between alcoholic beverages.
- Plan your transportation in advance and take advantage of rideshares such as Lyft and Uber.
- NEVER operate a motor vehicle, watercraft, snowmobile, etc. after consuming alcohol and never be the passenger of an intoxicated driver.
- At no point should you leave your drink unattended. It takes less than a second for someone to drug your drink, making you more vulnerable to something bad happening to you. We also advise you not to drink out of a bottle that’s already been opened or accept a drink from a person you don’t know.
- Be aware of the signs of alcohol poisoning – With moderation being the key, be mindful of your alcohol limits and remember to eat before drinking to avoid alcohol poisoning. Call 911 immediately if you suspect someone needs medical attention.
- Additionally, be especially careful around balconies while drinking.
WATER SAFETY:
Many spring break injuries happen in and around the water. Poolside, you hear about drownings and injuries from slip and falls, balcony jumping, diving, and more.
Swimming, whether in the ocean or a pool, can be life-threatening if one is being reckless.
- Pay attention to marine advisories, flags, and marine life warnings. Even the strongest swimmer can get pulled into a rip current or struggle in high surf. If there have been shark sightings, take them seriously and avoid the water until officials say it’s safe to re-enter.
- Don’t swim in the ocean alone
- Be cautious on slippery pool patio surfaces – Walk at all times and avoid horseplay.
BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS:
We’ve all seen news coverage on various cases of spring break trips that have turned into tragedy. We can’t stress it enough to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Be mindful of people who appear suspicious, and adhere to a few safety tips:
- Utilize a buddy system – Make it known who’s watching out for who in the group and stick to the plan.
- Avoid traveling by foot at night, especially alone – ALWAYS travel in groups and it’s advisable to use a rideshare or cab service to return to your hotel or Airbnb at the end of the night.
- Never leave a club, restaurant, party, etc. with people you don’t know
- Assign a few people to watch personal items – It’s irresponsible for an entire group to swim in the ocean at the same time, leaving personal items unattended. Items may become stolen and this is another opportunity for someone to slip a drug into an open drink.
COLD WEATHER SAFETY:
Hitting the slopes instead of the beach? The rules of drinking responsibly still apply in colder spring break destinations. Take note of a few tips to stay safe at the ski resort.
- Take lessons – Before skiing or snowboarding, it’s best to first participate in the ski/snowboarding lesson to help prevent injuries. Most resorts offer beginner classes for complete newbies, as well as refresher courses for those that simply need to review the fundamentals.
- Dress warm – Avoid frostbite at all costs. Wear a battery-heated vest or gloves for adjustable warmth all day long, and use an electric boot and glove dryer to make sure your gear is ready for the next day as well.
- Adhere to all safety protocols on the slopes – Stay within the ski/snowboarding parameters and pay attention to signs pointing out potential dangers.
- Safely operate Snowmobiles – Drive with care and never drive while under the influence of alcohol.
Partaking in spring break fun this year? Be vigilant, use common sense and make smart choices so that you avoid the misfortune of a spring break injury.
Should you find yourself in an accident resulting in a personal injury this spring break because of someone else’s negligence, rely on our team of expert personal injury attorneys to bring you justice. At Fulmer Sill, we’re confident that our experience and knowledge will produce a favorable outcome for you. We handle all fees on a contingency basis, meaning that unless we’re successful, you don’t have to pay us. Contact us immediately at (405) 433-7414 or request a case review here.
