What to Do if Hit by a Beer Bottle: A Comprehensive Guide
Drinking nights can be memorable, especially when they involve tossing beer bottles. However, sometimes these nights can take an unexpected turn. If you find yourself in such a situation, what should you do? This article aims to provide a step-by-step guide on how to handle the scenario if you get hit by a beer bottle.
How Serious is the Situation?
While the idea of picking up a chair and smashing it over the person who threw the bottle might seem appealing, it's important to assess the situation first. Depending on where you got hit and the severity of the injury, the course of action can vary. If you were hit on the back of your head while drinking in your garden with drunken friends, it was likely a painful but minor incident.
Assessing the Severity
The first step is to determine the severity of the injury. If it's a minor injury, you might be able to manage it yourself. However, if the injury is severe or if you're experiencing excessive bleeding or sharp pain, you must seek immediate medical attention. Time is crucial in such cases, as prompt treatment can prevent further complications.
Handling the Injured Area
Assuming the injury is not too severe, follow these steps:
Assess the Wound: Check if there is any bleeding. Clean the wound as much as possible with water or a sterile cloth. Apply Pressure: If there is bleeding, apply clean, sterile pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding. Ice the Area: To reduce swelling, apply ice wrapped in a cloth to the injured area for about 10-15 minutes. Bandage: Once the bleeding has stopped, gently wrap the injured area with a clean bandage.What If the Bottle Didn't Break?
When the bottle doesn't break, the beer might still be inside. It's a peculiar thought, but the convention often suggests drinking the contents as a sign of gratitude to the thrower. However, before you do, consider the following:
Check for Contamination: If the thrower was under the influence, they may have compromised the cleanliness of the beer. Dispose of the Bottle: Once you're done drinking, make sure to dispose of the bottle properly.In some cases, you might want to retributively find a piece of the broken bottle and use it to “thank” the thrower in a rather unconventional way, as shown by the following example:
I pick up the biggest piece that I can find and deposit in an eyeball or the larynx of the person that allowed it to "slip" from their hand striking me on purpose. OOPS!
This is highly irresponsible and not recommended. It's important to prioritize your health and safety over revenge.
Seeking Medical Attention
If you suspect any damage to your skull or if the pain persists, it's imperative to seek medical attention. Even if the initial pain subsides, the underlying injury might be more serious than you think. Remember, your safety is paramount.
Conclusion
While getting hit by a beer bottle during a night out can be a traumatic event, it's essential to stay calm and assess the situation. If everything checks out and the injury is minor, you might be able to manage it at home. However, don't hesitate to seek professional medical help if you experience severe pain or bleeding. Time heals all wounds, and your well-being is the top priority.