Something that may surprise my fellow Durangoans, however, is we are surpassing the state average when it comes to DUIs in La Plata County. We average about 129 DUIs per 10,000 people compared to 69-100 statewide (DrinkingAndDriving.org).

The plethora of social activities centered on outdoor fun, great food and even better beer has perhaps contributed to this higher-than-normal rate of DUIs seen in our community. We live in a place where the mentality of work hard, play hard and party hard rings true. I’m not suggesting we change what makes Durango such a unique and great place to call home.

I am suggesting we partake in our favorite activities and get home safely, too. One such organization, Celebrating Healthy Communities Coalition supported by San Juan Basin Health, is working toward decreasing DUIs and increasing incentives to do so. With the creation of the Designated Driving Campaign, 24 bars and restaurants are partnering with Celebrating Healthy Communities Coalition and X-Rock to encourage patrons to have a sober driver when enjoying a night out with friends. By visiting participating businesses, designated drivers will receive free nonalcoholic drinks.

This St. Patrick’s Day in particular, the Irish Embassy, Animas City Theatre, Francisco’s and the Diamond Belle Saloon will be offering free, holiday-themed nonalcoholic drinks for designated drivers.

So, next time you go out, designate a sober driver, and enjoy our community’s incentives to do so. I’m pretty sure we would all rather spend $12,000 on a new bike, paddleboard or raft than a DUI.

To learn more about the Designated Driving Campaign and the participating bars and restaurants, visit sjbhd.org/celebrating-healthy-communities.

Katrina Lindborg

Durango