Responsibility, self reliance keys to stopping drunk driving Published May 13, 2009 By Howdy Stout Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla., -- With the incidents of underage drinking among Airmen on base increasing and driving under the influence a constant concern, Tinker leadership is working on a way to promote responsibility and self reliance. SWAT, a concept formatted by the Airmen Against Drunk Driving executive staff, is an acronym designed to remind Airmen of services available, with an emphasis on self-reliance and making responsible choices before deciding to drink. SWAT stands for self-reliance, wingman, A2D2 and taxi. "SWAT is a great way to remember the choices individuals have when choosing to consume alcohol," explained Lt. Col. Jill Scheckel, head of the Culture of Responsible Choices committee at Tinker. "If we can get people thinking and acting proactively, we can prevent adverse consequences." "What SWAT represents is self examination," says 72nd Air Base Wing Command Chief Eric Harmon. "There are a lot of opportunities for positive assessment and risk management before they act." Chief Harmon says many of the incidents of DUI or underage drinking can be addressed by Airmen evaluating their own behavior regarding alcohol and making responsible plans before deciding to drink, such as having a wingman to drive or planning for a taxi. In short, self-reliance. "It all begins with self," he said, "self actions and responsibility for your actions." "It does come down to choices and we want people to make healthy choices," agreed Colonel Scheckel. Most recent statistics at Tinker show incidents of underage drinking on the rise, with a total of 24 cases in 2008, up from 11 in 2007. However, DUI incidents showed a drastic decrease with 29 cases in 2008 compared to 47 in 2007. The incidents among Airmen mirror incidents of drinking and driving and underage drinking in society at large. A recent survey conducted by the committee among Airmen found that many of their attitudes toward drinking reflect those of society at large. And for many young Airmen at a new posting, alcohol represents an "easy" way to socialize with strangers. But, Colonel Scheckel says, there are many alternatives open to Airmen, such as the Latté Lounge at the Airmen's housing. "That's another great place where Airmen can meet and socialize without alcohol being involved," she said. Airmen, in or out of uniform and on or off base, represent the Air Force to society and being cited for underage drinking or driving under the influence tarnishes the reputation of not just the individual, but also the organization. In any event, the Air Force shows zero tolerance for either underage drinking or driving under the influence. Under the 0-0-1-3 program, the occurrence of both should be zero. "We really want to ensure that our Airmen know of available resources and take advantage of them," said Colonel Scheckel. Those services include having a wingman along, someone who can serve as a non-drinking designated driver or the A2D2 program that allows intoxicated airmen to call for a volunteer driver rather than risk driving themselves. "There are a lot of programs out there and we're going to consolidate those lists to be active, proactive and engaging in taking care of our Airmen," Chief Harmon said. Chief Harmon said SWAT is also good way for airmen to remember the options available to them, starting first with making a responsible decision about their actions before they act. "First, take responsibility for yourself," he said. "Think before you do it." What's the worst that could happen? There are a number of variables in the cost of a DUI, including the blood alcohol level, number of previous convictions and if there were any injuries or deaths involved. At the very least, however, the cost of a DUI in Oklahoma is more than most people think. Lawyer fees: $1,000 to $5,000 Court costs: At least $500 Bond: $500 Jail: Minimum of 24 hours and up to 25 years Driver's license: Suspended for 180 days to three years, depending on blood alcohol level. Driver's license reinstatement fee: Up to $300 Fines: From $1,000 for a first offense up to $5,000 for three or more convictions. Substance Abuse Evaluation: $175 Who you gonna call? Those needing a ride home after a night of fun can call 820-4444. A2D2 volunteers will collect Airmen and deliver them to their residence free of charge, anytime of the day or night. For more information on A2D2 or to volunteer, visit www.mil.tinker.af.mil/A2D2.