20th Safe & Sober Planner

Operation ABC

You Drink & Drive. You Lose.

SECTION I: OVERVIEW
Impaired driving is a problem that affects the entire nation. However, its consequences are mostly experienced at the local level. Therefore, local communities must take a leading role in addressing this national issue. Creating partnerships in your community can give your mobilization greater reach and credibility. Partners can expand funding, equipment and other resources to ensure your messages reach the greatest number of individuals. They also have the ability to spread impaired driving prevention messages long after your mobilization is over.

Overcoming the impaired driving problem requires addressing the issues at the local level. Community groups and organizations are invaluable advocates for any mobilization. Whether it be social, religious, school or athletic organizations, these groups provide forums that reach large segments of your community. Possible organizations to contact include your local:

  • Parent-teacher association;
  • Recreational youth sports leagues;
  • Scouting troops; and
  • Religious organizations.

Medical and healthcare professionals are usually the first to see the consequences of an impaired driving crash. Partnering with local medical and public health professionals provides a means for them to promote positive messages and prevent the needless crashes to which they respond. Medical, public health and emergency services organizations for your mobilization may include:

  • Local hospitals;
  • Fire departments;
  • Physicians and nurses;
  • Emergency Medical Service providers;
  • Healthcare insurance providers; and
  • Your local American Red Cross Chapter.

Successful mobilization efforts should also include local businesses. Many businesses provide access to an essential forum: the point of sale. In addition, local area businesses have a vested interest in eliminating impaired driving due to the economic consequences of crashes. Possible advocates in the business community for impaired driving prevention messages include:

  • Your chamber of commerce;
  • Local restaurants and bars;
  • Food and beverage retailers; and
  • Beverage distributors.