July 4, 2008

Dear Editor,

Whether you are celebrating our country’s heritage with fireworks, a barbecue or fun on the water, one way to demonstrate true American spirit is by being a designated driver. Del Papa Distributing Company reminds adults that making responsible choices can help everyone enjoy a fun, safe holiday.

If you are hosting the party, be a responsible host. Offer non-alcohol beverages to guests who do not drink alcohol and others who are designated drivers. Always serve food when serving alcohol beverages, and stop serving alcohol at least one hour before the party ends. Finally, arrange safe rides home for all guests.

When on the road, drive safely. Make sure everyone in the vehicle wears a seat belt. Always be alert and in control of your vehicle. Resist the urge to speed by making sure there is plenty of time to reach your destination.

If you are on the water, obey all rules and regulations regarding distance, buoys, channel markers and no-wake zones. Make sure everyone on the boat wears a life jacket and before hitting the water, check all equipment and brush up on boating safety.

Del Papa Distributing is committed to keeping our roadways and waterways safe. We offer programs to encourage the use of designated drivers and skippers. Coupled with increased law enforcement and the 154 million Americans who have either been a designated driver or been driven home by one, drunk driving fatalities during the Fourth of July holiday period are down 31 percent since 1982 (U.S. Department of Transportation).

This holiday weekend, demonstrate your true American spirit by looking out for family and friends and helping make sure everyone has a safe, fun holiday. Remember, Responsibility Matters!

Matthew Sweatt
Retail Marketing Manager
Del Papa Distributing Company