Scotch Plains Rescue Squad Tip of the Month – Drink responsibly

 

Now that the holiday season is here, many of us will be attending parties and possibly eating and drinking more than we should.  While overeating may lead to tight waistbands, overdrinking and binge drinking can lead to much more serious problems.  According to MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), “Some of the most dangerous days of the year on our nation’s roadways are between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.”

 

 If you know you’re going to be drinking, prepare ahead of time by having a designated driver, or download the Uber App or one like it to your phone.  (The Uber App is the official designated driving App of MADD.)  Make sure you eat as well as drink, and keep track of what you are drinking and how much.  It’s easy to lose track while having a good time.

 

 If you see someone who has had too much to drink, make sure they do not plan on driving.  Also, if someone really overdoes it and passes out, don’t just assume that they’ll awaken once sober.   Besides falling unconscious, other signs of alcohol poisoning are confusion, seizures, irregular breathing and blue-tinged or pale skin.  According to the Mayo Clinic, “Drinking too much too quickly can affect your breathing, heart rate, body temperature and gag reflex and potentially lead to a coma and death.”  If he or she vomits, turn the person on his or her side so they don’t choke.  Call 911, and do not leave the person alone until medical help arrives.

 

The Scotch Plains Rescue Squad wishes you a very happy holiday and a Happy New Year! 

 

The Scotch Plains Rescue Squad is a volunteer organization of Neighbors Helping Neighbors.  With over 90 volunteers, we answer calls not only in Scotch Plains but in surrounding towns as well when needed.  Besides answering calls, you will see our ambulances at many special events held in town, such as Scotch Plains Day, the Memorial Day Parade, high school football games, and the summer concerts on the Village Green.  We are also available to provide demonstrations for Boys and Girls Scout troops, clubs, and any other group that may be interested in what we do.  In addition, we lend out wheelchairs, crutches, canes and other assorted medical equipment free of charge.  Please reach out to us if there is something we can do for you.  (908) 322-2103 for non-emergencies or scotchplainsrescuesquad@gmail.com

 

Contributing Author:  Susan Baldani, a life member of the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad.

 

https://patch.com/new-jersey/scotchplains/scotch-plains-rescue-squad-tip-month-1