Celebrated every year on the 4th of July, Independence Day commemorates the publication of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, claiming America’s independence from the rule of Great Britain.  Also known as the Fourth of July, Independence Day is traditionally celebrated with patriotic displays, family events, parades, and a focus on America’s traditions of personal and political freedom.

Independence Day

In more recent times, too many celebrate Independence Day with drug use and alcohol over-consumption.  Overshadowing the barbecues, family get-togethers, parties and fireworks are the statistics for Fourth of July drinking, and drinking-related fatalities.

The Fourth of July accounted for more vehicle-related fatalities than any other single day from 2000 to 2009.  A driver under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol accounted for 40% of those fatalities.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the four deadliest days on America’s roadways are July 4th and July 3rd; and December 23rd and December 24th, with all years from 1975 to 2002 considered.

The NHTSA reports that, in the United States, studies have shown that the number of motor-vehicle related fatalities were higher during the holiday periods, including New Year’s, Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

According to recent analyses of data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), July 4th ranks first in the nation for highest crash fatalities, and July 3rd ranks second.

Knowing that the Independence Day holiday is a high-risk time for increased incidents of alcohol-related vehicle fatalities, it behooves everyone to take some basic precautions to ensure their 4th of July holiday remains a safe and enjoyable one for themselves and others.

Guide to a Safe and Drug-Free Independence Day

Because holiday celebrations for so many people involve partying and alcohol consumption or some form of drug use, it challenges those who have overcome prior substance abuse and are now sober.

There are some things those in recovery, or those who are working to maintain their sobriety, can do to help safeguard their hard-won sobriety—and help others do the same.

Learning to live and enjoy the events and activities of life without involving or using alcohol or other drugs is part of overcoming substance abuse, and maintaining sobriety.  It is possible to celebrate a substance-free 4th of July holiday with friends and family; and avoid becoming a fatality statistic.

The following guide can help you and those you love celebrate a safe and drug-free Independence Day:

Consume Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Alcohol often flows freely at Fourth of July get-togethers of any kind, so plan to bring and consume your own non-alcoholic drinks.  This lets others know you will not be drinking alcohol, and it prevents a situation that tempts or encourages drinking or relapse.  It also prevents the bad decision to drive while under the influence.

Make the Right Celebration Choices

Some Independence Day celebrations focus on alcohol consumption. Others focus on getting together with family or friends; participating in and enjoying outdoor summer sports, cooking and enjoying great food; and celebrating America’s traditions of freedom with a rousing display of fireworks.

Decline any invitations to celebrations or events where you know there will be alcohol over-consumption and/or drugs and drug use.  Safeguard your sobriety, and choose a Fourth of July celebration that focuses on all the activities there are to enjoy without substance use.

Celebrate with Supportive Friends

Spend your Fourth of July celebrating with others of like-mind who are sober, want to stay sober, are not involved in substance abuse, and appreciate living life drug-free.  Buddy-up with a sober friend who is drug and alcohol-free, and help each other out.

Trust Yourself

Trust yourself to make the right decisions.  Go out and enjoy Independence Day with others, and celebrate living life.  Surround yourself with others who know how to live and enjoy life without chemical dependency, and who appreciate and respect your desire to remain sober.

And as America celebrates her independence, you can truly celebrate your independence from alcohol and drugs.