PLYMOUTH, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — As holiday celebrations begin, one organization is reminding people of the consequences that can happen behind the wheel if poor choices are made.
On Monday morning, an overturned vehicle sits outside the Wyoming Valley West High School in Plymouth.
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The sight is recognized as a symbol and reminder of the horrifying effects of driving impaired.
"S.O.B.E.R., which stands for slow on the bottle, enjoy the road," said Stefanie Wolownik, prevention education specialist at Wyoming Valley Alcohol and Drug Services.
"Between Lyft, Uber, taxi services, designated drivers. There’s just no reason why you have to get behind the wheel of a car after drinking," continued Wolownik.
Wolownik explains the S.O.B.E.R. Campaign that has been bringing awareness for more than 35 years.
It kicks off Wednesday and gets students involved in the discussion.
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"They will be placing a wreath and have a candlelight vigil in memory of those that have passed because of drinking and driving crashes," said Wolownik.
The day before Thanksgiving, also known as ‘blackout Wednesday’, is when many meet up with old friends and family, which usually involves drinking. In 2022, 100 drivers in the United States were involved in deadly crashes on Thanksgiving Eve, 35% of those drivers were drunk.
Wolownik says she hopes the campaign hits home with not just students, but the community and they keep it in mind when behind the wheel.
"When I was a kid and right up until my mom passed, she said when I went out the door, ‘Be careful, behave, be good, be wise, and beware.’ every parent should be having that conversation with their children."
The sober campaign ceremony will occur on Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. at Wyoming Valley West High School in Plymouth.
