TRAVEL HEALTH

Accidents and hospitalisation

In many countries medical facilities are not the same standard as they are in the UK and it's sensible to reduce your chance of needing medical care. However it may be worth carrying your own your own sterile medical kit to resource poor countries incase you do need to receive medical attention. You should also avoid blood transfusions unless absolutely essential - refer to the Bloodcare Foundation for more information.

 

Traffic accidents are the major cause of death amongst travellers. You can keep yourself safe by taking a few sensible precautions:

• Always check the local traffic regulations before you attempt driving
• Always wear a seatbelt and never ride in a taxi that doesn't have them
• Never drink and drive
• Always put children in a child restraint
• If you're hiring a vehicle, avoid motorcycles and mopeds. Select larger cars that are well maintained and check your insurance cover before you leave. It's also worth talking to a motoring organization like the AA or the RAC
• Always wear a helmet if you do choose a motorised or regular bicycle
• Only use reliable taxi firms

Swimming and water accidents are another leading cause of death amongst travellers abroad. Here are a few tips on how to stay safe:

• Never go swimming alone and always ensure that children are supervised by an adult who can swim well
• Avoid alcohol and too much food before swimming
• Never dive into water where the depth is uncertain
• Pay attention to public warnings: Check the currents and presence of things like sharks or jellyfish
• Don't ingest any water while swimming - the water could be contaminated and make you very ill
• Never board any boats that appear over-crowded and only board those that are in good condition

Binge drinking should also be avoided. While it's common to enjoy a few relaxing drinks while on holiday, it's important that you don't overdo it.

Every year, binge drinking seriously injures thousands of British travellers. With their judgment impaired, they put themselves at increased risk of accidents, being kidnapped, sexually assaulted, mugged or even killed. Drug-spiked drinks are another growing problem.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when drinking alcoholic beverages on holiday - or anytime:

• Offset your alcohol intake by drinking a glass of water in between every alcoholic beverage
• Never drink on an empty stomach and don't drink too much in the sun or in a hot tub
• Avoid mixed drinks and ask the bartender to open bottled or canned drinks in front of you
• Never leave your drink unattended - not even for a minute
• Implement a buddy system and never leave your friends alone with someone you don't know
• Never get into a car with someone who has been drinking and never attempt driving yourself
• Don't even go near the water when you've been drinking - It's possible to drown in only 2 inches of water