Have a Safe, Non-impaired Summer

Opinion

By Mothers Against Drunk Driving

As families get set to fire up the grill, hit the highway, and head out on the water for the Fourth of July, Mothers Against Drunk Driving encourages everyone to make safety part of their plans. The organization’s “Safe Summer” campaign is a season-long effort to prevent impaired driving, protect teens, and keep the roads and waterways safe. Here are some tips to remember.

1. Make a Plan Ahead of Time. Whether you’re heading out to a barbecue, beach trip, or boat excursion, figure out how you’re getting home safe before the drinks start flowing. Use a rideshare app, designate a sober driver, or make a plan to take public transportation. Don’t wait until the last minute to make a decision.

2. Don’t Drive Boats or Recreational Vehicles Impaired. A boat is a vehicle, and so are jet skis, golf carts, all-terrain vehicles, and bikes. Alcohol is the leading factor in fatal boating crashes, and boaters are likely to become impaired faster than drivers, thanks to motion, sun, vibration, and engine noise, which intensify alcohol’s effects. Avoid alcohol entirely when operating any vehicle, on land or water.

3. Always Wear a Life Jacket. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, 85% of people who drowned in recreational boating incidents were not wearing life jackets. Wearing a life jacket is one of the simplest ways to stay safe on the water.

4. Plan Ahead When Heading to a Concert or Festival. Summer concerts and music festivals are all about good vibes, but many take place in remote areas with limited transportation options. If you plan to drink or use substances, don’t risk driving. Use a rideshare app, designate a sober driver, or find out if the venue offers shuttles or public transit. Do your research ahead of time so you’re not stranded later. Go with friends who look out for each other, and make a group pact to get home safe.

5. Talk to Your Teens About Making Safe Choices. Summer break means more young drivers on the road and a higher risk of crashes involving teens. Parents play a critical role in keeping them safe. Start the conversation early about the dangers of underage drinking, peer pressure, and the importance of making smart choices behind the wheel.

6. Be a Proactive Host. Hosting a Fourth of July party? Think ahead to help your guests get home safely. Make sure there are non-alcoholic drink options, encourage designated drivers, help people book a rideshare, or offer a place to crash if needed. A little planning goes a long way.

7. Drive Defensively and Report Impaired Driving. Even if you’re sober, others may not be. Buckle up, drive defensively, and expect the unexpected, especially near lakes, beaches, and party zones. If you spot someone driving impaired, don’t stay silent. Call 911. One call could save a life.