Resolution #1: Stay Safe

New Year’s Eve is upon us, and as we toast a farewell to 2024, it’s important to keep in mind the importance of staying safe by not overindulging in alcohol. New Year’s Eve carries some sobering statistics, including being the top holiday for reported binge drinking by both men and women. New Year’s Eve also holds the top slot for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) infractions. Ahead of the festivities, we want to provide some tips on how to indulge safely, and what to do if you or a loved one drink to excess.

Drinking Safety

Alcohol is the drug that kills or injures the most Americans compared to other substances, so it’s crucial to manage drinking with care. To avoid drinking too much, and the risks that come with overindulgence, here are a few rules of thumb to consider:

- Manage your drinking triggers
  
  If you’re stressed, depressed, or going to be around a difficult person, for example, hold yourself accountable. Don’t succumb to the temptation to try and medicate yourself against the unpleasant feelings by drinking too much.
- Remember the 20-minute rule
  
  After finishing one drink, allow 20 minutes to pass before starting another one. Even better: drink water or another non-alcoholic beverage during that 20 minutes in between alcoholic drinks.
- Utilize the buddy system
  
  Make a pact with your friends to keep an eye on each other during events. Watch each other for signs of intoxication, ensure no one leaves their drink unattended, and step in if your friends are in a situation that seems uncomfortable. Most importantly – don’t let anyone leave alone or with a stranger.

If someone drinks too much

When someone drinks alcoholic beverages more quickly than their body can process it, this can lead to alcohol poisoning. Here’s what to do when someone has consumed too much alcohol.

Stay with the person to ensure they don’t fall, choke, or attempt to drive
Don’t assume the person will get home safely – provide or arrange a ride home. Keep in mind that the alcohol they consumed may not have fully affected them yet.
Watch for signs of alcohol poisoning. These can include being sluggish or unable to stand, getting sick or losing control of bowel or bladder, exhibiting blue-tinged skin, losing consciousness, having a seizure, or showing signs of irregular breathing.

If you notice any of these symptoms, call 911 right away, or bring the person to the Fountain Hills 24/7 Emergency Room to get immediate care.

If you’re unsure of the severity of someone’s intoxication or whether medical attention is needed, it’s always best to err on the side of safety. For urgent care in Fountain Hills, we recommend they come to the Fountain Hills Medical Center to get checked, be monitored if needed, and get rehydrated.

For emergency care in Fountain Hills, or routine medical care in Fountain Hills, we’re here if your celebrations take a severe turn and someone needs medical attention. Our certified medical team can also provide guidance on substance use and provide resources for where to get help for substance dependence in Fountain Hills. May your New Year’s celebrations be joyous, festive, and safe. Happy 2025 from our team to you!

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