Teens – Be responsible over the festive season

While completing their final examinations is a huge cause for celebration, matriculants need to do so responsibly.

Incidents, especially among matriculants, increase at this time of year. Incidents include motor vehicle accidents, assault and drowning. Contributing factors include reckless driving and the abuse of drugs and alcohol.

Klaus Milbert, the Skills Development Facilitator and an Advanced Driving Instructor at ER24, said alcohol intake increases among matriculants who are 18 years of age as they are allowed to drink by law. In addition to the increasing tendency to have alcohol at parties, concerns have also been raised about the availability of liquor to their underage partners.

Accidents

In addition to speeding, driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be contributing factors. Reaction time to any danger posed on the road is slower while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

”Most vehicle accidents, in which teenagers are the drivers, result in major trauma, disability or death.The reality is if anyone dies while you are behind the wheel, you could face criminal charges. You may survive but others may not,” said Milbert.

In addition to criminal charges your recklessness could also affect your job opportunities in the future. “Killing someone is a terrible feeling to live with. Underage driving can also result in a fine or jail sentence of your legal guardian and a licence denial when you reach the age for application.”

Drowning

Drowning increases among matric party groups. “There is alcohol and drug usage at these parties. Then a youngster decides to go for a swim. Either they cannot swim or play rough in the pool and drown,” said Milbert.

Drugs

Youngsters should keep in mind the danger of taking drugs includes overdose and medical conditions such as psychoses, heart and kidney failure. “For that short-term high the possibility could be a long-term disability or a criminal record. It is not worth it. The advent of the combination of the date rape drugs and alcohol are killers,” said Milbert.

If you go to a party or club, remember not to accept drinks from strangers, especially open drinks or drinks in a glass. Do not leave your drinks unattended. Girls should travel in two’s while in a club, including the toilets.

Emergency

Youngsters should ensure their parents are aware of where they are going in case of an emergency.

“You need to have a good relationship with your parents. Something could go wrong and parents need to know where to find you. If you are missing they will know where you last were. Also, if there is an emergency at home, parents will know how to get hold of you,” said Milbert.

ER24’s Emergency Contact Centre can be reached 24 hours a day on 084 124.