As we prepare to celebrate over the holidays, many of us no doubt find ourselves keenly anticipating the chance to unwind with friends and family as well as a glass or two of eggnog.
No one can be blamed for looking forward to celebrating the spirit of the season by relaxing with, well, some fine spirits.
But we are all responsible for ensuring our own safety and as much as possible, that of those around us.
Accepting an invitation to attend a party is one thing — people should also seriously consider making sure they have plans to get home in one piece. Furthermore, having alternate plans lined up in case something falls through is also a good idea.
“Always have a plan — have a designated driver, or have another way home,” Sgt. Jim Lank, the Sundre RCMP detachment's commander, told the Round Up.
“It's everyone's responsibility to look after themselves and their friends. All I can say is do your best to prevent someone from drinking and driving.”
The sergeant urges people to have those discussions before a party even begins so the details are all figured out by the end of the night, and no one is left haphazardly winging it, potentially leading to a regrettable decision.
Fortunately, great strides have been taken in recent decades to curb the amount of impaired drivers through public awareness initiatives and engagements, as well as proactive patrols and enforcement. After many years policing, Lank said his personal experience has seen a significant drop in charges laid for drunk driving.
Even Statistics Canada confirms a downward trend in overall instances of impaired driving that has reduced the number of fatalities on roads and highways every year. However, “reduced” is the key word in that sentence. Every year, people still are killed in completely preventable collisions.
As long as there are still those who would risk driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, there remains work to be done to address the problem, which affects society as a whole.
Being responsible when heading out to a party does not necessarily mean having to be a boring wet blanket who rains on everyone's parade. In fact, being well prepared with a sensible plan could arguably eliminate any potential stress at the end of a holiday gathering by avoiding ending up in the awkward situation of not knowing how to get home.
All of us at the Round Up encourage Sundre and area residents throughout Mountain View County to not only enjoy some time off and the chance to socialize, but also to keep in mind safety as they celebrate.
Let's make this Christmas and New Year's a holiday season to remember for all the right reasons.
— Simon Ducatel, editor
