Navy Alcohol Abuse Prevention (NAAP) promotes responsible alcohol use year-round for Sailors who are of age and choose to drink, but no time is more important than the holidays.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Commission, the holiday season sees a significant increase in traffic fatalities that involve impaired drivers. With that sobering information in mind, NAAP’s Keep What You’ve Earned campaign’s Give the Gift of a Designated Driver (DD) pledge is up and running.

“Pledging to serve as a designated driver can be the perfect one-size-fits-all present to keep friends and loved ones safe,” said Ms. Dorice Favorite, NAAP director. “It only takes a minute to complete the pledge online and make a real difference this holiday season.”

Sailors, their friends and family can go to https://go.usa.gov/xnj86 to make the quick and anonymous pledge to serve as a DD. After taking the pledge, participants are encouraged to visit the KWYE webpage at https://go.usa.gov/xPWPH to print a gift card that can be given to a shipmate, friend, or family member to be used in exchange for a safe ride home. The pledge runs through Dec. 31.

“The consequences of impaired driving can be devastating,” Favorite said. A Driving Under the Influence (DUI) conviction can wreck not just a vehicle, but also a career and a bank account. In the first six months after a DUI, fees like bail, fines, court costs, DUI class, and attorney’s fees can total nearly $10,000 or more. Long-term, increased insurance rates and lost income due to reduction in rank can have a significant impact on financial stability. “It’s not worth the risk,” she added. “If you or your friends choose to drink, make sure you have a DD and a plan.”

For more information or links to other resources, including tips on how to have a stress-free DD experience, check out the KWYE website. Download Pier Pressure, the campaign’s free mobile application, for tools to help you plan ahead, find a safe ride home and keep what you’ve earned. Available on the App Store and Google Play.

If you think you may be struggling with alcohol use, or if drinking interferes with your work and/or relationships, visit the Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program located at your base’s clinic or military treatment facility. For more information, contact your base Alcohol and Drug Control Officer.

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