Well, it is nearly here. Everyone is gearing up, parties are being organized and I’m sure there are a few wagers out there regarding who the next Super Bowl champs will be. Cowboy Stadium is ready, all 73 acres. Did you know the entire Statue of Liberty and its base can fit into the stadium with the roof closed? And if that isn’t big enough, the stadium holds the world’s largest high-definition video display. The parking lots open at 10AM while the kick off is scheduled to begin at 5:30PM, so you know that local traffic will be hectic to say the least.

Much preparation has taken place to keep all 110,000 fans safe at the stadium. While we are all aware of the times we live in, not all the risks are at the game. Young males, ages 21-34 who are the core audience for major sporting events, are most likely to be involved in car crashes, to drive impaired and not wear seatbelts according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. You have heard me say before that a seatbelt is your best defense against an impaired driver, so buckle up!

Personally, I am enjoying the game (and the innovative commercials) at home with friends. I can’t boast of having the largest high-definition TV, but I have a primo parking spot and reserved seating. If you are having friends and family over, remember to designate your driver early. Serve lots of food, including non-alcoholic beverages. In the third quarter, put the adult beverages up and bring out the coffee and desserts. It’s also a great idea to have the numbers for local cab companies handy. Enjoy this event without penalties, fouls or calls of unsportsmanlike conduct, because in real life there aren’t instant replays.

Mary Ann Contreras, RN

Injury Prevention Coordinator