Stay on Track This Labor Day...

Story Number: NNS130829-05Release Date: 8/29/2013 10:23:00 AM
From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs


MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- While preparing to spend the Labor Day holiday and the end of summer celebrating with friends and family, Navy Alcohol and Drug Prevention Program (NADAP) Director reminds Sailors to remain vigilant Aug. 29.

Labor Day continues to be one of the most deadly holidays according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 138 people were killed in drunk driving crashes over the Labor Day weekend in 2011.

"A DUI is something that no one, regardless of whether they are serving in the military or not, would like to have on their record," said Dorice Favorite, NADAP program director. A DUI is listed as among the negative performance indicators considered by selection and promotion boards. It may result in the following: mandatory participation in a rehabilitation program, adverse performance evaluations and fitness reports, relief for cause, and reduced career opportunities. "Maintaining a level of self-control and staying responsible while drinking alcohol is within everyone's ability."

Before heading out for a night of celebration with friends, have a plan. A plan will ensure that you "Keep What You've Earned."

Plan your night out from start to finish and set a realistic goal for your alcohol use.

* Decide how much (quantity) and how often (time) you plan on drinking.
o How much will I be drinking? Know that all drinks are not created equal. For example, a Long Island Iced Tea may have as many as 5 to 7 shots of alcohol, which can take as long as 3 to 6 hours to metabolize.
o How often will I be drinking? Drink slowly. It can take time for alcohol to take its effect. Try skipping a drink now and then. Have a nonalcoholic non-carbonated drink between the alcoholic one to keep your blood alcohol concentration at a reasonable level.
* Know who you will be with.
o Make sure you know at least two people wherever you are when drinking. If you choose to drink with people choose wisely and responsibly. These are the people you are trusting to step in and prevent you from being taken advantage of or going beyond your drinking limit.
* Have a plan on how you will get home?
o Determine who is going to be the designated driver before anyone has their first drink. This ensures that everyone gets home safely.
o Always keep the number of a cab company as a backup. Cabs may be expensive, but DUI charges can run into the thousands.

"Drinking and driving not only risks your own life, but the lives of everyone on the road." said Favorite. "Additionally a DUI can cost you anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 in fines."

"Don't risk everything you've worked so hard for. We want every Sailor to make good choices on this last week and weekend of summer," Favorite said.