Alcohol, water activities don't mix Published July 13, 2011 By Staff Sgt. Cecilia Cardenas 81st Medical Operations Squadron KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- It's summer -- people are firing up the poolside grill, soaking up the sun and heading out to the beaches, lakes and rivers. Summer brings countless water activities including boating, jet skiing, swimming ... and drinking alcohol. Whether we like to admit it or not, many people make drinking a part of these activities, unaware of the increased risks. Even one drink can make a difference. Alcohol doesn't follow the normal digestive route; instead it is directly absorbed into the blood stream, altering brain chemistry. This causes impairment in judgment, reaction time, balance and vision. These critical skills are required for safety in any water activity. After consuming just one standard alcoholic drink -- 12 ounces of beer, 4 to 5 ounces of wine or 1½ ounces of liquor -- your risks of injury or death increase dramatically. Exposures to noise, vibration, sun, glare and wind can intensify the risks. Boating or operating any motor vessel requires coordination, concentration and attention to detail, just like driving any vehicle. Would you get behind the wheel of a car after consuming an alcoholic beverage? In Mississippi, it's illegal to operate a watercraft under the influence of alcohol in public waters. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, "Alcohol is a major factor in approximately 50 to 70 percent of all recreational boating fatalities nationwide." In 2008, 124 deaths and 276 injuries occurred in boating accidents that directly involved alcohol. Boat operators are not the only ones at an increased risk when alcohol is involved; also consider their passengers. About two-thirds of annual drowning victims never intended to go into the water. The Centers for Disease Control estimate 140,000 injuries are associated with swimming and about 25 to 50 percent involve alcohol. Diving is a risky activity itself; mixing it with alcohol is a dangerous combination. Diving accidents result in 5,000 deaths and 8,000 paralyzing spinal cord injuries annually. During the Critical Days of Summer, it's very important to keep safety in mind. Following these safety tips can reduce the risks of injuries or death: Never drink alcohol before operating a boat, jet ski or other watercraft Learn how to swim. Swimming classes are given in numerous locaitions in the area. Always use the Wingman concept. Know how to respond in an emergency. It's a good idea for all members to know basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation techniques and to have a first aid kit handy. Know how to operate the watercraft, including the safety cut-off switch, etc. Know the laws and regulations. Always wear a life vest.