Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

The long, sunny days of summer are a time to relax and have fun. But when mixed with alcohol, summer activities can turn dangerous and even deadly. Alcohol use can dull reactions of the brain and nervous system, leading to aggressive attitudes, poor judgment, loss of inhibitions and reckless conduct. All of these can result in alcohol-related accidents, injuries or health problems.

Heavy alcohol use in summer is also more likely to cause dehydration and raise blood pressure. The risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) increases, causing weakness and affecting the body’s ability to regulate its temperature. This could result in heat stroke.

Don’t let alcohol put a chill on your summer fun. Follow these tips:

• Never allow anyone under age 21 to drink alcohol. It’s illegal.

• If driving, don’t drink. If drinking, don’t drive. There is no safe level of alcohol for drivers, even if they think they are "OK." Do not ride with drivers who are drinking. Stop them from driving.

• Never drink and drive a watercraft. Drinking and driving is as dangerous on water as on land.

• Don’t swim or dive if drinking. Alcohol inhibits the swallowing and breathing reflexes needed to swim. If riding in a boat, alcohol can impair balance and increase chances of falling overboard.

For more information about substance and alcohol abuse, contact the Genesee County Health Dept. at 257-3612.