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Alcohol
can spoil holidays
Over
the years I have responded to many vehicle accidents involving alcohol. I
always performed my job to the best of my abilities, but sometimes I found it
difficult to control the anger I felt because of dr
unk drivers who d eva s t
at ed the lives of innocent people.
I’m not lecturing on the evils of drinking. My problem is with the
decisions you make after drinking. A drunk driver endangers himself and
everyone he comes in contact with.
Many people have told me their driving improves when they drink.
Please don’t believe this lie. Some innocent person will likely suffer the
consequences of this misconception.
If drinking is going to be a part of our holiday, we must make
responsible decisions.
Just think about how busy and stressful the holidays can be, and then
add winter road conditions along with alcohol. It’s a recipe for disaster.
So how do we make the holidays safer?
One of the most important things we can do is make arrangements so we
don't have to drive. Appoint a designated driver or arrange for a taxi to
take you home. I know it’s no fun to be the one not drinking, and yes a taxi
can be expensive, but the consequences of drinking and driving can be far
worse.
Make sure and eat before you start drinking. This will help the
alcohol to be absorbed more slowly.
Resist the pressure to drink if you really don’t want alcohol. It’s
not necessary to drink to experience holiday cheer.
It’s also important for holiday drinkers who don’t drink often to
remember that they will have a lower alcohol tolerance. If you’re having a
party, offer nonalcoholic alternatives for those who choose not to drink and
stop serving alcohol at least an hour before the party ends.
Don’t be fooled into believing that coffee or a cold shower will sober
you up. Only time will make you a sober and safe driver.
If you drink this holiday season please make responsible decisions.
Your decision not to drink and drive may very well grant some unknown family
the wonderful gift of life.
24/7/365: You call; we respond.
KENNETH LEE KNIGHT is a battalion chief in the High Point Fire
Department.
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