By Johanna Hicks, Family & Community Health Extension Agent, Hopkins County, [email protected]
Ahhh, spring break – something many people enjoy. Spring break can be a particularly dangerous and deadly time on Texas roadways. Each Spring break, too many young, promising lives are cut short due to the fateful and regrettable decision to get behind the wheel and drive drunk.
In an effort to stop this deadly trend, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s Watch UR BAC program and The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) are partnering to raise awareness on impaired driving during the spring break holiday. The message is for everyone to arrive at their destination sober, safe, and smiling.
We want everyone to have a happy and safe spring break, one that they will remember for years to come, but for all the right reasons. Even one drink before driving is when impairment begins. Under no circumstance is it ever OK to drink and drive. This behavior is illegal, it is deadly, and it is selfish. Do everyone a favor: If you will be drinking during spring break, or for any occasion, plan ahead for a sober ride.
In Texas, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to consume alcohol. The state’s legal limit for intoxication is 0.08 blood or breath alcohol concentration (BAC) for those over the age 21. Law enforcement officers can arrest drivers for having a BAC below 0.08 with probable cause based on the driver’s behavior. Drivers under the influence of alcohol may face up to $17,000 in fines and fees, jail time, and could lose their license. Know the signs of an alcohol overdose and when someone needs emergency medical care. If any of the following signs after drinking are observed, do not hesitate to request emergency assistance:
- Unconsciousness
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Slow breathing
- Slow heart rate
- Clammy skin
- Delayed responses
- Low body temperature
- Skin or lips turning blue
- Paleness
Celebrate with a plan. The best plan is to not drink alcohol at all. Turn your focus on good wholesome activities – explore the great outdoors, enjoy time with friends and family, go sight-seeing, do something productive. Make the right choice to not drink and drive – arrive alive.
Upcoming Events
- Spring Break Basic Sewing Workshop: March 14-16, 10 a.m. to approximately 2 p.m., Hopkins County Extension Office, 1200 West Houston, Sulphur Springs. No charge, but participants are asked to bring a sack lunch, fabric scissors, pins, and seam ripper. Make-and-take projects will be provided each day. Participants may also bring their own fabric and patterns if they have a specific project in mind. Only a couple of spaces remain. Call 903-885-3443 for more information and to sign up.
- 55+ Health Fair: April 5, 9 a.m. to noon, ROC. Be sure to visit the Texas A&M AgriLife Exhibit!
- Be Well, Live Well series: April 11, 14, 18, 21, 10 a.m., Extension Office. This four-lesson series is targeted toward the 50+ crowd. No charge, but seating is limited. Call 903-885-3443 for more information and to sign up.
Closing Thought
Always believe that something wonderful is about to happen.– Coco Channel
Contact Johanna Hicks, B.S., M.Ed., Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Family & Community Health Agent for Hopkins County at P.O. Box 518, 1200-B West Houston, Sulphur Springs, TX 75483; 903-885-3443; or [email protected].
