Stay sober and safe on Blackout Wednesday, the day before Thanksgiving
According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), this event began to appear on social media around 2012, and it has gained more attention over the years. At Kolmac, we realize that the binge drinking aspect of this day makes it a dangerous time for our patients and other people who are dealing with alcohol problems. Here’s what you need to know.
The dangers of Blackout Wednesday
According to many restaurants and bars, they do more business on Blackout Wednesday than any other day, including New Year’s and St. Patrick’s Day. Thanksgiving eve is a popular time for binge drinking among college students and people living in areas where restaurants and bars capitalize on the day’s notoriety.
Organizations like MADD and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have campaigns warning people about the dangers of binge drinking and drunk driving on the day before Thanksgiving.
According to NHTSA, “Over the past five years, more people have died in motor vehicle crashes—and more have died in crashes involving alcohol—around the Thanksgiving holiday than any other holiday period.” Law enforcement agencies across the country add extra traffic patrols to identify drunk drivers on Thanksgiving eve.
Avoiding Blackout Wednesday problems
If you are attending Kolmac, or you are a recovering alcoholic, you need to be aware of Blackout Wednesday so you can avoid relapses. Here are some suggestions.
- Avoid restaurants and bars that “celebrate” Thanksgiving eve.
- Stay away from family and friends that binge drink or are likely to participate in Drinksgiving events.
- Stay busy, especially if you feel the urge to drink. Make something for the big meal or play a game with loved ones.
- If you go to a restaurant, go with the mindset that you will leave and go somewhere else if people appear to be participating in Thanksgiving eve drinking.
Now that you know about Blackout Wednesday, think ahead and plan your strategy to stay safe and sober. For more information about Kolmac, contact us.