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Flying with the airlines is simply the only way to go if your trip is over 500 miles. Of course you always hear about plane crashes and when they do there are rarely survivors but the alternatives are just plain dangerous. Car crashes happen far too often and without warning. Trains leave the tracks at the most inappropriate times. Buses careen down hillsides.

However when flying keep that belt on. Turbulence can hit at any time. Long flights then get up and walk around. Blood clots do happen when sitting for an extended period of time. Drink plenty of water as the artificial altitude brought on the the aircraft's pressurization system can dehydrate you quickly. Stay away from coffee, tea and sodas. They cause dehydration. Juices are good but plain water is the best.

Listen to your hostess as she tells you about the aircraft's safety system. Note where the exits are and know you can find them in the dark. Remember your seat cushion is a flotation device. Even if don't crash in water you might need it later. Take it with you and nothing else.

If you do survive the crash get out as fast as you can. Any delay on your part could mean someone else's life. Seconds count!

There is one thing that the airlines will not tell you. If the aircraft pressurizes at altitude any alcohol consumed will have a triple effect. One shot of whiskey will suddenly feel like three. Two will feel like six. You may not even be able to place your oxygen mask on your face. If a survivable crash follows you may not be able to get up and find your exit.

So if you do decide to drink and fly be sure and have someone beside you who loves you very much. Someone who doesn't drink, who knows to place their own mask on and then yours and who is big enough to carry you outside to safety.

So drink plenty of water and stay away from alcohol. The life you save may be your own.

Learn more about this author, S. Thomas Still.
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