DDs avoid PDs and RIPs
It’s that time of year. It’s time for us to celebrate the milestones of 2011 and ring in 2012 with friends and family. It’s also the time of the year when drunk driving rates skyrocket. While champagne and other libations take center stage during the holiday season, there are a few tips you’ll want to keep in mind to keep your entrance into the new year a safe and happy one.
1. You don’t have to drink to have fun. Skipping those adult beverages won’t mean that you’ll be skipping out on the celebration. For starters, you will be able to remember your special events (and may be able to take pictures to document it for other guests who might not remember so well). You also get to avoid drinking empty calories from alcoholic beverages – helpful for some of your New Years Resolutions. And of course, who likes to start the new year with a headache? Not drinking can help you avoid hangovers, too. Win, win, WIN!
2. If you do decide to enjoy your holiday with a libation or two, remember to have a designated driver (DD) before you start to drink. Need help recruiting? Use tip #1. If you fail to designate a driver, DON’T GET BEHIND THE WHEEL. Find someone to pick you up or call a taxi. Otherwise, you may end up taking a special tour of your local Police Department (PD) or WORSE….the morgue (RIP).
3. If you’re going to drink, do so in moderation. The CDC’s website helps define moderate drinking as a “lower risk pattern of drinking.” This means, on average, 2 drinks a day for men and, on average, 1 drink a day for women* (It should be noted that other factors should be considered including height, weight, medical history, etc. It is also important to note that you should never drive after drinking any alcohol, regardless of the amount). If you or someone you know has difficulty sticking with a moderate drinking limit, find someone to help you stay within your limits (OR see tip #1!).
In 2009, there were 10,839 fatalities in crashes involving drivers with a blood alcohol level of .08 or more. Let’s work to reduce this during New Years and into 2012!
Wishing you a happy and SAFE celebration into the new year!
For more information, FAQs, and statistics, please visit the CDC website.
