A FORUM FOR COMMUNITY ISSUES : Gripe : ‘Impairment Begins With the First Drink’

Drunk driving, once treated only as a vehicle code violation, is beginning to be seen as the violent crime that it is. It is behavior chosen by an individual, even though it is widely known that alternatives such as designated drivers and non-alcoholic choices can prevent these crimes.

It is not sufficient to beat our chests and complain about a totally preventable disaster. It is not even enough to offer support for the victims and their survivors. Until we accept the fact that impairment begins with the first drink, we are condoning the “I’m OK. I’ve only had one or two beers” mentality. Our children watch us and, even though they would deny it, we know that we are their role models. If we drive after a few glasses of wine, a couple of beers or a few cocktails, we’re telling them it’s a pattern they should copy.

Our homes are our kids’ first school. We are their first teachers. Let’s give them a break and protect them and ourselves from one natural and national disaster that is preventable. Set an example. Our lives and the future of our kids depend on it.