FALLS CHURCH, Va. (AFNS) -- Accidents related to drunken and drugged driving claim the lives of thousands of Americans each year.
TRICARE officials would like to remind beneficiaries to ensure their holiday season is relaxing, enjoyable and peaceful by remembering to drink in moderation and encouraging their loved ones to do the same.
"As you head off to festivities this winter, you will be faced with choices to be made involving alcohol; please make safe ones," said Navy Cmdr. (Dr.) Aileen Buckler, a TRICARE population health physician. "If you chose to drink, drink in moderation and plan ahead to have a safe way to get home, whether it be a designated driver, public transportation or a cab."
To raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and to encourage citizens to drive responsibly, President Barack Obama designated December as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month.
"During National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, we recommit to preventing the loss of life by practicing safe driving practices and reminding others to be sober, drug-free and safe on the road," said the President in a White House statement.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials, excessive drinking is the leading risk factor for injury in the U.S. Burns, falls, drownings and poisonings are all more likely to occur in situations where individuals have consumed alcohol. Intentional injuries and violence also increase in situations where alcohol is consumed in excess over the holidays.
To help avoid accidents and injuries and to stay safe and in control this holiday season, here are some tips to follow:
-- Remember, it is always OK not to drink.
-- Eat before and during drinking.
-- Designate a driver who won't be drinking or determine an alternate way to get home, such as public transportation or a cab.
-- Alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
-- Make drinks last; don't "chug" or "pound" them.
-- Drink responsibly and stay in control.
Department of Defense officials developed a website and campaign to raise awareness of the negative effects of binge drinking at
www.thatguy.com, and TRICARE officials launched an informational Web page at
www.tricare.mil/alcoholawareness to help create awareness about binge drinking, alcoholism and underage drinking as well.