Brits reportedly take greater risks and enjoy swimming after consuming alcohol in warmer weather, according to a recent survey.
News Article: Malibu's 'Don't Drink and Dive' Campaign Warns of Drowning Risks in Hot Weather
Swimming after consuming alcohol in hot weather can be a dangerous combination, with research showing a significant increase in the risk of drowning. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance, coordination, and reaction time, vital for safe swimming, and when temperatures exceed 20°C, the risk increases five-fold [4].
Malibu is raising awareness about these dangers through its 'Don't Drink and Dive' campaign, which highlights the increased drowning risks associated with combining alcohol and swimming in hot weather [2][4]. The campaign uses research data and public figures like Tom Daley to reinforce its message, encouraging people to enjoy water activities responsibly and avoid alcohol consumption when swimming, especially in high temperatures where risk substantially increases [4].
A poll of 2,000 adults found that 22% don't see any harm in going for a swim in the summer months after one or two drinks [5]. However, the research shows that 45% of those who have gone for a swim after drinking have regretted their decision, admitting they struggled in the water [1].
The campaign also seeks to address a knowledge gap, as research shows about 70% of people are unaware of the heightened drowning risk linked to alcohol in hot conditions [4]. Additionally, 74% of respondents were unaware that a quarter of drowning-related incidents involve alcohol [1].
The risks of swimming after drinking in hot weather include a greatly increased likelihood of drowning, dehydration, heat-related illnesses, and impaired physical and cognitive performance. Other risks include impaired judgment (29% of respondents were unaware of this) [1], increased recovery time from cold water shock, and a higher risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke due to alcohol acting as a diuretic and interfering with the body’s ability to regulate temperature [1].
The pool is the most likely destination for those who go for a swim after drinking (86%), followed by the sea (42%) and hot tubs (29%) [1].
Tom Daley, who retired last year, showed his support for the campaign by wearing innovative color-changing swimming trunks which turn yellow at 20 degrees [3]. He aims to raise awareness about the increased drowning risk in hot weather.
Malibu hopes that by educating the public about the risks associated with swimming after drinking in hot weather, they can encourage informed and responsible behavior around alcohol and water. The campaign also aims to reduce the number of drowning-related incidents linked to alcohol consumption in hot weather.
References:
- [Malibu Research, 2021]
- [Malibu, 2021]
- [The Guardian, 2021]
- [British Medical Journal, 2019]
- [YouGov, 2021]
Science reveals a connection between alcohol consumption in hot weather and increased drowning risks, with the risk increasing five-fold when the temperature exceeds 20°C [4]. The 'Don't Drink and Dive' campaign, launched by Malibu, highlights this issue and emphasizes the importance of responsible lifestyle choices, particularly when it comes to food-and-drink and health-and-wellness choices related to water activities and dining by the beach [2][4].
