Model safe drinking for the holidays Published Dec. 17, 2010 By Capt. John "Chris" Noah 42nd Medical Group MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- The holiday season offers an excellent opportunity for parents to communicate with their children about drinking alcohol. Children who live in homes where alcohol is not the primary focus of holiday get-togethers may be less likely to grow up thinking that drinking is the key ingredient to having a good time. Parents should keep in mind that children are very observant and are likely to be more influenced by how parents handle alcohol rather than what parents actually tell them about it. Recent research even suggests that holidays may be one environmental factor that can either increase or decrease the risk of alcoholism within families. To decrease risk, successful holiday celebrations should offer plenty of alternatives to alcohol so guests will not be tempted to drink excessively and so nondrinking guests will feel included. Nonalcoholic beverages, food and activities other than drinking will help to ensure a safer, more inclusive party. Instead of bringing a bottle of alcohol to a holiday party, guests should consider giving a gift that everyone can enjoy, such as a dessert or a holiday decoration. That being said, more likely than not, alcohol will be present at any holiday party you attend. This is a good time to show your children what responsible drinking entails. If your children observe that you drink in moderation and that alcohol is not the main component in having a good time, he or she may be more likely to model this behavior. As always, have a designated driver at every holiday event you choose to attend. If for some reason this doesn't happen, call a taxi instead of trying to drive home after a few drinks. Here are the numbers to some local taxi companies: New Deal Cab Co., 262-4747, Original Queen Cab Co., 263-7137, People's Cab Co., 264-9898, Robinson Taxi, 269-9086, and Yellow Cab, 262-5225. If you have any questions, comments or concerns about drinking behaviors during the holidays, please feel free to contact Capt. Chad Morrow or Navy Lt. Tenaya Watson of the mental health clinic at 953-5430.