Stay Informed of Alcohol Laws in Texas and Drink Responsibly During the Spring Holiday

March marks the beginning of spring and the start of school break activities. Families and college students are moving across the nation and the world to reach their Spring Break destinations. A symbol of Spring Break is the consumption of alcohol. It is important to develop safe drinking habits and be informed of the drinking laws in your state.

The state of Texas has a Zero Tolerance Law. This law states that it is a criminal offense for a minor to have any detectable amount of alcohol in their system and operating a motor vehicle. This law extends to purchasing or the attempt to purchase alcohol while underage.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA) 85.6 percent of individuals 18 or older have drank alcohol. Those who plan to legally engage in the consumption of alcohol should learn safe drinking habits. Safe drinking habits include eating a full meal before you begin drinking. If you engage in heavy drinking (more than 3 drinks for women, and more than 4 drinks for men) make sure you have chosen a designated driver. Make sure to hydrate(drink water) before drinking, and continue to hydrate between alcoholic beverages. Finally, make sure you are familiar with the MUST HELP acronym for recognizing alcohol poisoning.

If you feel that you or someone you know is experiencing alcohol poisoning, The Texas Poison Center Network is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Underage drinkers (under 21) who know someone that is experiencing alcohol poisoning, do not hesitate to call 911. Underage drinkers who are reporting an alcohol poisoning of another underage individual are given immunity from criminal charges. This law is referred to as the 911 Lifeline policy. You may read more about the origins of this policy in the December 2013 blog entry.

 

Remember to save the Texas Poison Center Network toll- free number in your phone. You can order magnets, stickers and other materials with the TPCN number here.

Is camphor safe to use?

 

Is camphor safe to use?                              

  

Camphor is a chemical used in a variety of medicines and household products around the world. There are natural forms of camphor derived from different plants and trees and synthetic forms derived from oil of turpentine.  It is commonly used in creams, for its cooling sensation, and to provide relief for pain, cough, itching, cold sores, or sore muscles. It can also be found in products such as essential oils, mothballs, and even some pest control products.

Safe Use

Always follow the directions on the label when using products containing camphor. Camphor containing creams that are not FDA approved, over the counter products should not be applied to the eyes, nose, or mouth, especially in young children. Ask your doctor before using these products on babies or young children.

When applying creams to the skin, do not cover with bandages or excess clothing. If the cream is covered, it can cause the skin to absorb more of the product, which may cause unwanted side effects. If the product causes skin irritation or burning, remove the product and rinse the area well with water.

Child-resistant containers will not prevent all children from opening the product. Store these products up, away, and out of sight. Do not keep these products on tables or countertops, even if they are being used frequently. Always keep products in their original labeled container. 

Health Effects 

If swallowed, camphor can cause:

·        Mouth irritation

·        Stomach pain

·        Nausea and vomiting                                                       

·        Lower blood pressure

·        Difficulty breathing

·        Seizures

·        Death

 

Call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222 if you experience these or any other symptom after use. Never make a person throw-up! If the person is not breathing, is unconscious, or having seizures, call 911.