How alcohol consumption impairs safety during winter conditions
As Spring approaches and the weather changes, it is important to be aware of thinning ice and take the proper precautions before heading out for a night of drinking. When in an impaired state, you are more susceptible to environmental hazards. It’s important to stay aware, especially since a student went missing in the past month in the UP.
Trenton Massey, a twenty-one–year–old NMU student, tragically went missing on Feb. 22 after walking home alone from a bar. Police believed that Massey may have fallen through the ice near Founders Landing Boardwalk in Marquette. They have since called off the search after a joint effort of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, State Police, and Coast Guard yielded no results. It is believed that Massey may have been impaired and disoriented.
Brian Cadwell, Director and Chief of MTU Police, said the following in regards to ice safety: “As far as ice goes, just get it in your mind right now that ice is not safe at all. It’s best to avoid situations like that if you are involved in drinking or any other activities that can be harmful and lead to poor judgment.”
As winter comes to an end, it is critical for everyone to be wary of any frozen waterways. There are many spots along the Portage Canal in Houghton where the ice has already weakened and is very thin, such as anywhere along the Portage Lake Lift Bridge. Salt running off the roads weaken the ice near the bridge before other areas along the Portage. It is also important to be cautious around creeks and other water outlets that lead into the Portage for the same reasons.
Additionally, students need to be cautious when consuming alcohol and other substances. Even though Spring is near, it is important to dress appropriately for the weather. According to Beau J. Freund, in an article in the Journal of Wilderness Medicine, alcohol can lower someone’s internal body temperature, but increase a false sense of warmth which can lead to hypothermia. That is why it is important to dress in layers and wear the appropriate clothing. Reid DeVoge, Deputy Director and Chief of MTU Police, also said that “We [MTU Police] always make sure that if people are going to engage in drinking they are of legal age, and that they do so responsibly. It’s also a good idea to make sure that you are with people that you trust and stay with the pack.”
For any questions concerning the use of alcohol, other substances, or any other public safety concerns on campus, feel free to contact Public Safety at 906-487-2216 or visit the Harold Meese Center.
