Don’t drink and drown this Halloween

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Royal Life Saving Society UK has launched a national campaign called “Don’t Drink and Drown” after the death of York St John Student, Megan Roberts.

The 20-year-old student was separated from her friends and tragically fell into the River Ouse near York’s Lendal Bridge. Megan’s sad death has prompted her mother Jackie Roberts to personally work with the RLSS in numerous projects as she says “I’m finding it is so important for me that Meg’s memory is kept alive” and “channelling my energy into making something positive seems right”.

Many consider excessive amounts of alcohol an integral component of university life, however

a single moment under the influence can result in tragedy.

Alcohol, especially when consumed in immoderate amounts, results in the altering of the chemistry within the brain. It is classified as a depressant meaning that it causes disruption in balance, thoughts and actions.

The Acting Chief Executive of the RLSS, said: “Drinking and/or taking drugs near or in water can be a dangerous and a deadly cocktail.

Alcohol can seriously impede your ability to survive in water.

“At the RLSS UK we work hard to inform and educate people of the dangers and would say to never go into water when you have been drinking and always take care and be aware if you are near water.”

Drink responsibly otherwise you are putting yourself in serious danger as well as others. There are ways to avoid areas of water after a night out and that is to have a preplanned strategy beforehand.

[dropcap]1[/dropcap] Drink with friends that can look after you – Being with people that care about your safety on a night out is imperative to having a fun and safe night. If things go wrong, they are there to support and help you.

[dropcap]2[/dropcap] Nominate a “designated driver” – This individual should be within their restrictions on a night out. If someone within the group is too indulgent they can limit the chances of an unfortunate situation.

[dropcap]3[/dropcap] Know your own limits – Being aware of how much your body can withstand is essential. Know what you are drinking that night in advance e.g. “two beers” so you are not tempted to stray over your cap.

[dropcap]4[/dropcap] Plan the journey back home – This involves familiarising yourself with the surroundings of the place you are drinking at beforehand e.g. if the route home includes passing water, call a cab.

The RLSS UK works tirelessly to promote drowning prevention, delivering water safety education as well as offering a range of awards and programmes that teach lifesaving skills to all ages. Remember, do not submit to peer pressure, but only to your own limits and conscious, because for many, losing a loved one as a result of alcohol is a despairing reality.

For more information of the RLSS UK, visit their website www.rlss.org.uk, follow @RLSSUK, visit www.facebook.com/RLSSUK or call: 01789 773994