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.
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