December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Reducing impaired driving increases the health and well-being of the community. As a driver, passenger, or host of a party, we all have a role to play in keeping our friends, family, and neighbors safe on the roadways. Every day is the day to take steps to ensure drivers are not impaired from consuming alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs.

What you can do to prevent impaired driving:

  • Designate a sober driver before going out.
  • Feature and serve mocktails if you are hosting a party or bar tending—see recipes below!
  • Call a friend, taxi service, or family member if you need a ride home.
  • Make sure your guests have a sober ride home.
  • Call 911 if you suspect a driver is impaired.
  • Talk with your child about alcohol and drugs. Share with them your disapproval of underage use.

Resources

There are many free resources to support you in making healthy choices and having age-appropriate conversations with your child:

ParentUp Vermont offers resources and tips to help you provide supportive and effective guidance to your child around topics like substance use.

SAMHSA’s “Talk. They Hear You.” app features an interactive simulation tool to help parents practice talking with their kids about underage drinking and drug use.

VT Helplink is a statewide, public resource for finding substance use treatment and recovery services in Vermont. Helplink services are free and confidential.

Mocktail Recipes

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Alliance for Community Transformations (ACT) and The Collaborative promote healthy communities and substance-free youth in Bennington County through education, programming, environmental strategies, and policy development. Follow on Facebook for updates: @actbennington and @thecollaborativeus.

Image Credit: tampabaymonitoring.com

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