Toast to safety

Alcohol is the world’s favorite social lubricant, and drinking is a favorite hobby on many college campuses. But its effects can be destructive. This week, Weekend takes a look at ways to party safely.

Tips for alcohol safety:
Set a limit and stick to it — if you don’t know what your limit is, follow the rest of these rules.
Don’t drink on an empty stomach — eat foods high in protein and fat, like cheese or nuts.
Pace yourself — drink plenty of water and eat in between drinks. It takes your body longer to feel the effects of alcohol on a full stomach.
Avoid beer bongs, chugging and other forms of binge drinking — if you’re short on time, getting drunk quickly can be enticing, but it’s risky. Buy a flask.
Always know what’s in your drink — don’t leave your drink unattended, and don’t accept a drink from someone you don’t know. This is especially important at big parties with lots of strangers.

SOURCE: California State University Long Beach Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Program

Alcohol poisoning
If alcohol poisoning goes untreated, it can result in permanent brain damage or death.

Symptoms:
Mental confusion or unresponsiveness
Vomiting
Seizures
Slow or irregular breathing
Hypothermia, bluish skin color or paleness

What to do if someone shows signs of alcohol poisoning:
Do not wait for all symptoms to be present.
If there is any suspicion of alcohol poisoning, get help. Be safe, not sorry.
Above all, do not hesitate to get help. The Indiana Lifeline Law provides you immunity from underage drinking and several other minor crimes if you are seeking medical attention for a friend.

SOURCE: collegedrinkingprevention.gov

Indiana Lifeline Law
Since 2004, Indiana has experienced more than two dozen alcohol-related deaths of students under 21 years of age. To prevent this, the Indiana legislature created the Lifeline Law last year. It provides immunity to several minor crimes when seeking medical help for a friend if the caller cooperates with authorities. The law urges students to “make the call, get help and safe a life” if someone they know is in danger of alcohol poisoning.

The Lifeline Law provides immunity for these crimes:
Minor consumption (underage drinking)
Public intoxication
Minor possession of alcohol
Minor transportation of alcohol

The Lifeline Law DOES NOT provide immunity for these crimes:
Providing to a minor
Operating while intoxicated
Possession of a controlled substance

Here’s what you need to do to in order to receive immunity:
Provide your full name and any other relevant information requested by law enforcement officers
Remain on the scene until law enforcement and medical assistance arrives
Cooperate with authorities on the scene

SOURCE: http://www.indianalifeline.org