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News
June 29, 2023
Risky drinking can put a chill on Summer fun

Summer is typically a wonderful season for outdoor activities and spending additional time with family and friends. This summer take measures to protect your own health and that of your loved ones.

Swimmers Can Get in Over Their Heads Alcohol impairs judgment and increases risk-taking, a dangerous combination for swimmers. Even experienced swimmers may venture out farther than they should and not be able to make it back to shore, or they may not notice how chilled they’re getting and develop hypothermia. Even around a pool, alcohol can have tragic consequences. Inebriated divers may collide with the diving board, or dive where the water is too shallow.

Boaters Can Lose Their Bearings

The U.S. Coast Guard reports that alcohol consumption contributes to 19 percent of boating deaths in which the primary cause is known, making alcohol the leading known contributor of fatal boating accidents. A boat operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher is 14 times more likely to be killed in a boating accident than an operator with no alcohol in their system. Reaching a 0.08 percent BAC would require about 4 drinks in 2 hours for an average-size woman (171 lbs.) or 5 drinks in 2 hours for an average-size man (198 lbs.). It is important to note that the odds of a fatal crash begin to increase with the first drink.

In addition, according to the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, alcohol can impair a boater’s judgment, balance, vision, and reaction time. It can also increase fatigue and susceptibility to the effects of cold-water immersion. If problems arise, intoxicated boaters are ill-equipped to respond quickly and find solutions. For passengers, intoxication can lead to slips on deck, falls overboard, or accidents at the dock.

Drivers Can Go Off Course

The summer holidays are some of the most dangerous times of the year to be on the road. When on vacation, drivers may be traveling an unfamiliar route or hauling a boat or camper, with the distraction of pets and children in the car. Adding alcohol to the mix puts the lives of the driver and everyone in the car, as well as other people on the road, at risk.

Dehydration Is a Risk

Whether you’re on the road or in the great outdoors, heat plus alcohol can equal trouble. Hot summer days cause fluid loss through perspiration, while alcohol causes fluid loss through increased urination. Together, they can quickly lead to dehydration or heat stroke.

So What’s In That Drink, Exactly?

Summer cocktails may be stronger, more caloric, and more expensive than you realize. You may be watching what you eat so you can fit into those summer clothes, but watching what you drink can keep you safe. NIAAA’s alcohol calculators can help you assess calories, drink size, alcohol spending, blood alcohol levels, and the number of standard drinks in each cocktail. (Visit https://www.rethinkingdrinking. niaaa.nih.gov/tools/calculators/Default.aspx)

Protect Your Skin

Sunburns can put a damper on summer vacations. People who drink alcohol while celebrating in the sun are less likely to wear sunscreen. And laboratory research suggests that alcohol lowers the amount of sun exposure needed to produce burns. This is all bad news, as repeated sunburns increase the risk of skin cancer. Whether drinking or not, be sure to slather on the sunscreen to maximize your summer fun!

Stay Safe and Stay Healthy

Be smart this summer—think before you drink. Avoiding alcoholic beverages while piloting a boat, driving a car, exploring the wilderness, and swimming or surfing. If you are a parent, understand the underage drinking laws—and set a good example.

For more information on preventing problems with alcohol this summer, and tips on cutting back, visit: https://www.rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih. gov SOURCE National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

Treasurer honored at retirement party
A: Main, News...
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Retiring McIntosh County Treasurer Betty Whisenhunt received high praise from the Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector Cindy Byrd at Whisenhunt’s retirement party Friday. “She could give courses acros...
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Killing them with kindness
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For the Children ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ overhauled in Senate, would cause even more government borrowing
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OKLAHOMA CITY – Over the past month, I have highlighted portions of the federal “Big Beautiful Bill” as passed by the U.S. House of Representatives. Currently, the bill is under consideration by the U...
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Another busy week in the district
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I started last Saturday June 21, bright and early at Stigler Reunion Days. I kicked things off at the Haskell County GOP Tent, answering questions and catching up with friends and supporters. Then I h...
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Hays Supports MOHA Executive Order
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Hays Supports MOHA Executive Order
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News
Woman captured following foot chase
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Katy Depot Meet and Greet
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Katy Depot Meet and Greet
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Mike Key talked to his Class of 1975 and other alumni about their Significant Alumni Jim Caro at the Katy Depot Meet & Greet on Saturday.
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