The aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt’s (CVN 71) Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) held an event in the ship’s hangar bay June 8, to highlight the dangers of drinking and driving.
Sailors wore goggles that simulated the effects of alcohol on a person’s vision while driving a tricycle through a series of cones.
“Not only has this event been a morale booster, but it has been an eye-opening experience,” said Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class Dimensia Streeter, a CSADD volunteer and participant in the event. “This has shown Sailors how bad drinking really affects their vision.”
Sailors drove the course until they made a mistake and were then pulled over by a CSADD volunteer and given a mock field sobriety test.
“Not only are Sailors able to have fun, but they are able to see how dangerous it is to drive under the influence,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 1st Class Craig Pasqual, from the Safety Department aboard TR.
The event also reminded Sailors that if they are going to drink to do so responsibly.
“The event helps to reinforce the Safe Ride program and to influence Sailors helping Sailors,” said Pasqual. “It reminds Sailors to be responsible when drinking and look out for their shipmates. If they are going to drink use a designated driver or make use of their Safe Ride card.”
[mappress] Press Release, June 12, 2014; Image: US Navy