EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- What is being a good wingman? It’s a promise, a pledge and a commitment to keep each other safe. The wingman concept is especially important during the holiday season.
Drinking during the holidays
Alcohol is often present at holiday events. A wingman makes sure their friends drink responsibly; intervenes to cut them off if needed; makes sure he or she is not left alone or in a potentially risky situation and ensures they make it home safe.
Arrange the ride home and a back-up ride, before the event. Talk with the wingman and agree on a pre-determined drinking limit. Take cash only to not exceed the limit.
Everyone should have phone numbers for their wingman, friends, co-workers and leadership who can assist with a safe ride home if necessary. Use the “0-0-1-3” concept for drinking responsibly: zero drinks if under 21; zero driving under the influence offenses; no more than one drink per hour and no more than three drinks per outing. Designate a driver whose best decision is not to drink at all.
Date safely
The holidays see an increase in online dating and an uptick in safety incidents involving spiked drinks. Never meet someone for the first time in a secluded area or personal residence. Arrange dates in high-traffic areas and share the phone location with a friend who can call or meet should a deviation from that plan occur. Never leave a drink unattended with strangers or acquaintances.
Get consent
A drunk or passed-out person cannot give consent. If there is a question as to whether a person can give consent or not, assume they can’t.
Have a list of resources
Have phone numbers for a designated driver, leadership and taxis or car services. Other phone numbers to call include: Adults Against Drunk Driving (850) 882-SAFE (7233) and the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response team (850) 882-SARC (7272).
The SAPR team is on call to offer to support for victims of sexual assault. We offer a multitude of services to military members and their dependents over the age of 18, and civilians employed here.
Anyone who needs our services are encouraged to call 882-2122 or visit 605 Inverness Road, Bldg. 605, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. To report a sexual assault, call the hot line at 882-7272 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or (850) 240-3219.