Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office

  Crime Prevention Unit

Safety Alert!

DRINKING AND DRIVING DURING THE HOLIDAYS

The holiday season is quickly approaching and with it the promise of parties packed with great food, good cheer and in some cases, an abundance of alcoholic beverages. The festive nature of the holiday season provides us with temptations that could very well lead to a dangerous driving situation resulting in an alcohol related crash that could

change our lives forever.

To have a safe and happy holiday season, consider these tips before drinking and driving:

• That after-work party with a bit of spiked punch sounds innocent enough until you consider that, even if you are just slightly buzzed, you are still impaired.

• Evening parties can lead to disaster if you aren't careful with your alcohol consumption. Alcohol can quickly impair your motor skills and clear thinking then before you realize it you are drunk. If your plans include drinking, during the party, make sure you have a designated driver who can get you home safely. If you are hosting a party where alcohol will be served you should consider not drinking anything yourself so that you can monitor the drinking of your guests. Make sure that you have plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks available for your guests. Remember, you are responsible for each person who attends your celebration. Keep in mind these facts about alcohol:

• Alcohol is the same, no matter what form it takes. A 12 oz. can of beer has roughly the same amount of alcohol as a 6 oz. glass of wine and a 1.5 oz. shot of whiskey.

• Alcohol takes time to metabolize out of your system. Drinking coffee won't speed up that time one bit.

• Be aware that drinking on an empty stomach will allow the alcohol to enter your bloodstream much faster. Know what you are drinking. If you don't know exactly what is contained in that holiday punch, you could be consuming more alcohol then you think.

Stay safe this holiday season. THINK BEFORE YOU DRINK!