Don't drink and drive

Page 7

Dear Editor:

My name is Nichole and I am 14-and-a-half years old. I come from a little reserve in northwestern Ontario-Migisi Sahgaigan (Eagle Lake).

I have a very strong belief that alcohol and driving (and I mean anything that moves) don't mix. No matter what people advertise in books, magazines, or in commercials, people never seem to get the message. Approximately 2,900 people die each year in car accidents. I think that a good portion of these car accidents can be prevented.

Even if you consumed a little bit of alcohol, it is still no excuse to drive, even for a short distance. People need to get it through their heads that drinking and driving can become fatal.

When you jump into a car, think that this could be your last ride in a vehicle. Think of your family, and if the person beside you or in the next car has family. What would they do without you? Or think of your kids.

So the next time you want to "party," think a little. Take a cab. Get a designated driver. Or, if you're close enough, walk. Use these ideas and you could save yourself and others.

Nichole Lands