Churches: Don't drink and drive

Five area churches are promoting a holiday safety message.
YOUNGSTOWN -- The Rev. Lewis W. Macklin III, regional coordinator of the African American Church Call To Buckle Up Project, is promoting the faith-based initiative that encourages seat belt usage, provides impaired-driving awareness and highlights the risks involved with speeding.
Five area churches -- Antioch Baptist, Elizabeth Baptist and Holy Trinity Missionary Baptist in Youngstown and Agape Assembly of God and Greater Apostolic Faith in Warren -- are spreading the message that "Family and friends do not let family and friends drive drunk," especially during the holidays and year-round.
The project noted that an average of three people die each day in car accidents. The message especially targets black males between the ages of 15 and 24.
Dangerous season
"It is well-documented that this holiday season historically has been one of the busiest on the nation's roadways and one of the most dangerous due to a high incidence of alcohol-related traffic crashes," the Rev. Mr. Macklin said. "If the messages in the pulpit and other venues avert even one traffic calamity, its mission has been successful. During the Christmas, Kwanzaa and New Year's holiday season 2005, there were 45 alcohol-related deaths throughout the state, and each were preventable."
"That's 45 people that will not be with their families this holiday season," said Shryiell Owens, AACCTBU state project coordinator. "As a faith-based organization, our first rule is that before getting behind the wheel there should be abstinence from alcohol. However, if you're going to drink, designating a sober driver before the holiday gathering or party begins is just one of several, simple steps to help avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving."
Here are some tips for holiday safety:
Don't even think about drinking if you are under 21 years old.
Never serve alcohol to minors.
Talk to young people about the dangers and consequences of impaired driving.
Provide nonalcoholic beverages at holiday celebrations.