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April is Alcohol Awareness Month

Alcohol and Safety - You Can Play a Significant Role 

Parties, family get-togethers, special events and holidays seem like natural opportunities to "have a few social drinks," even if you don't normally drink. You may not buy alcoholic beverages yourself, but they'll probably be offered to you frequently during these times. Here are some safety facts to consider before you raise your glass.

Alternatives to Drinking Alcohol

Don't make drinking the main focus of your get-togethers. If you're the host, provide plenty of tempting and nutritious nonalcoholic foods and drinks. Starchy foods, such as pizza, stuffed potatoes and cheese and crackers, and drinks such as juice, soda and nonalcoholic punch are ideal. If you're a guest, concentrate on consuming these goodies rather than alcohol. Set a limit on how much you will drink and stick to it. Never force drinks on a guest or feel you have to drink alcohol to "get in the mood." Don't drink punch or egg nog without asking first if they contain alcohol. Drink the plain versions instead. If you are the host, it’s always best to close the bar at least one hour before the end of the activity.

Drinking and Driving

One of the dangers of drinking alcoholic beverages is that you may think you're in control of your driving, but in reality you are not. If you're a frequent drinker, you may not feel drunk after a few drinks, but your blood alcohol level will show that you are. If friends tell you that you shouldn't drive, listen to them.  Leave with a designated driver.  Having as few as three or four drinks can double your chances of being in an accident.  After seven or eight drinks, those odds increase 25 times.

Time is the Only Cure

How soon after drinking is it safe to drive? The answer depends on how much you weigh, how much you've had to eat and how your body handles alcohol. On average, your body needs at least one hour for each drink you've had, to process and get rid of the alcohol. There's no other way to do it.  Black coffee won't do it, a cold shower or any other so-called remedies. Only time will make you sober enough to drive. Knowing this, plan ahead and designate a driver, take public transportation or a taxi.

Every year, the HealthQuest LIFELINE Employee Assistance Program helps State of Kansas employees and their family members with questions and concerns about alcohol use and abuse.  The confidentially 24/7 helpline number is 800-284-7575.