Designate a sober driver.

December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month. During 2003, more than 17,000 people died in alcohol-related highway crashes in the US. Every 30 minutes someone in the US dies in an alcohol-related crash. Now think of all the folks who are injured because of drunk or drugged driving. You can help stop these needless and preventable deaths and injuries. Who knows, you may even save a life, perhaps your own or that of someone you love.

Here's how:

If you are a party-goer:

--> Never get behind the wheel of a vehicle if you’ve been drinking.
--> If you are drunk, high, tipsy, buzzed, drugged or otherwise impaired, call a taxi, use mass transit, or call a sober friend or family member to come get you.
--> Or, just stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.

If you are a party host:

--> Remind your guests to plan ahead to designate a sober driver.
--> Collect keys upon entry to your party and give them back only if the driver is sober.
--> Always offer alcohol-free beverages during the event.
--> Make sure all of your guests leave with a sober driver.

We all can contribute to awareness. Click the links to learn more, spread the word, and take action.

Remember, friends don’t let friends drive drunk. Do not hesitate to take the keys from a friend who is about to drive while buzzed, drunk, drugged, or high. Be safe out there, and have fun.

"It is easier to stay out than get out." - Mark Twain