As high school and college students from around the country get ready for spring break, the nation’s emergency physicians urge everyone to have fun — but most importantly — stay safe with family and friends. Emergency physicians treat many serious injuries during spring break vacations. A lot of those are a direct result of bad personal choices.
The American College of Emergency Physicians has a list of do’s and don’ts that every person should prepare before heading out on break.

• Do- Wear a hat outdoors and a good pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes.
• Do- Swim with a buddy and try to stay close with people you trust at all times.
• Do- Drink plenty of water, especially when in the sun or if you are sweating heavily.
• Do- Know your surroundings, who you can call for emergencies, and where exactly local emergency departments are located.
• Do- Get enough sleep. Don’t overdo the activities. Sleep deprivation equals bad decision making.
• Do- Protect yourself against sexually transmitted diseases such as herpes or HIV, as well as unintended pregnancies. The best advice is abstinence. But if you do have sex, use a condom.
• Do- Use your own judgment. If you’re with a group involved in questionable activities resist the urge to join in.
• Do- Take any medications and proof of insurance along with you.
• Do- Get proper training from experts before taking part in athletic or skilled activities like surfing, water-skiing, and scuba diving.
• Do- Carry a cell phone with you at all times in case of emergencies.
• Do- Trust your instincts. You know what’s right, you know what’s wrong.
• Don’t- Consume illegal drugs.
• Don’t- Drink alcohol if you plan to drive, boat, or swim.
• Don’t- Drink alcohol if you’re underage.
• Don’t- Binge drink. Alcohol poisoning will almost certainly land you in the emergency department, or even worse.
• Don’t- Assume everything is okay if you feel like you’re getting ill. If you feel ill, it’s your body’s way of saying, slow down. Listen to it.
• Don’t- Go to an isolated place with a stranger or someone you do not fully trust.

For more information on spring break safety, please visit www.EmergencyCareForYou.org.