Plan ahead - a DUI on Super Bowl Sunday would be a game-changer

  • Published
  • By Jon Fishman
  • Edwards Substance Abuse Protection Specialist
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Super Bowl Sunday is one of the most popular sporting events in America. At the same time, it is one of the most dangerous days on our roadways. A large part of the danger comes from fans who drive under the influence of alcohol.

A report by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration notes that males 21 to 34 are most likely to drive while impaired. This same demographic is also the Super Bowl's main audience.

If you plan on consuming alcohol this Super Bowl Sunday, or at any other time, the Drug Demand Reduction Program wants you to be smart and take the following steps:

1. Plan ahead and always designate a sober driver before the party or celebration begins.

2. Don‟t even think about getting behind the wheel of your vehicle if you‟ve been drinking. You are 1.5 times more likely to get into a crash after just one drink.

3. If you are impaired, call a taxi, use mass transit or get a sober friend or family member to come and get you. You can also call Edwards' Airman Against Drinking and Driving hotline at 277-2233 (277-AADD).

4. Stay where you are.

5. Remember - Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk. Take the keys and never let a friend leave your sight if you think he or she is about to drive while impaired.

6. If you are hosting a party, remind your guests to plan ahead and designate their sober driver, always offer alcohol-free beverages during the event and make sure all of your guests leave with a sober driver.

Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you served ends up in an impaired driving crash.

Tips for Hosting a Safe Super Bowl Party

Make sure all of your guests designate their sober drivers in advance, or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers.

Serve lots of food and include lots of non-alcoholic beverages at the party.

Stop serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter of the game and begin serving coffee and dessert.

Keep the numbers for local cab companies handy, and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving while impaired.

Make arrangements for guests to sleep over if necessary.

Remember, only time will sober you up, and there is no safe limit.

For more information please contact Jon Fishman, Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist, Drug Demand Reduction at 225-3395.