Last updated: May 13, 2024
Memorial Day is a very important holiday where we remember the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Far too often though, people over-indulge in alcohol during the holiday weekend and get behind the wheel, putting themselves and others in danger.
You can improve your safety, whether you’re the one drinking or not with a few simple steps:
- Be aware of how much alcohol you’ve consumed—especially if you’re outdoors in the heat. Dehydration can intensify the effects of alcohol, causing even more impairment.
- Don’t get behind the wheel if you’ve had even one drink. Your judgment and reaction time are affected by alcohol long before you are aware of it.
- Don’t get in a vehicle with any driver who has consumed any alcohol.
- Pay more attention than usual when driving. Keep your distance from drivers who are driving recklessly or appear to be impaired.
- Avoid busy roads if possible. Most people will use the routes they are familiar with, but if you take back roads, you will avoid the traffic and reduce your chances of encountering a drunk driver.
- Don’t allow someone you know has been drinking to get behind the wheel. Take their keys and call a cab for them.
- If you see someone driving who appears to be impaired, call 911. You are actually doing them a favor by stopping them from killing themselves or someone else.
Have a safe Memorial Day holiday and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives to protect our great nation.