December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a reminder that alcohol, drugs, and fatigue can turn everyday travel into a serious risk. The holiday season can bring more travel, celebrations, late nights, and stress—making it especially important to plan ahead. 

Preventing impaired driving starts before you get behind the wheel. Through the Marine Corps Total Fitness (MCTF) framework, Marines, Sailors, and families can strengthen the habits and connections that support safe decisions. 

Manage Stress 
Holiday gatherings, family dynamics, end-of-year deadlines, and operational demands can increase stress. Recognize when you are overwhelmed and use healthy ways to manage it rather than turning to alcohol or other substances. 

Talk with someone you trust, take time to decompress, and use available resources when you need additional support. 

Prioritize Sleep 
Fatigue can impair reaction time, judgment, and coordination. Before a long drive or late-night trip, prioritize adequate sleep and plan for breaks. 

Coffee and energy drinks do not eliminate impairment caused by sleep deprivation, alcohol, or drugs. If you are too tired or impaired to drive, do not drive. 

Have a Plan on Nights Out 
Before heading out, decide how you will get home. Identify a sober driver, arrange a rideshare or pickup, or use an available installation transportation program. 

If a friend or fellow Marine has been drinking or is too tired to drive, step in. Offer a safe alternative and do not let someone who is impaired get behind the wheel. Looking out for one another is part of building a strong, connected community. 

Live Your Values 
Safe choices protect more than your own future. They protect your friends, family, fellow Marines, and everyone sharing the road. 

Make the decision before the first drink, before the long drive, and before fatigue takes over: have a backup plan and use it. 

If you need support, resources such as the Substance Assessment and Counseling Program (SACP), chaplains, and command leadership are available to help Marines and families make safe choices and get the support they need. 

Before you turn the key, make sure you are ready to drive. Plan ahead. Look out for each other. Get home safely.