'ILLUMINATING' ALCOHOL TESTS

Taupo Times, Volume 19, Issue 99, 23 December 1970, Page 3

'ILLUMINATING' ALCOHOL TESTS

Last week members of the Taupo Road Safety Organisation atteeded several social functions held by various clubs in Taupo where breath meters were demonstrated. The sole purpose was to derhonstrate to anybody who cared to participate just what his or her personal alcohol level was in relation to safe driving standards. Impressions gained were varied, some very pleasing and reflecting the sensible approach a percentage of people take to the fact that, after it is all over, they still have to drive home without wrapping themselves or their vehicle round anything. These people do realise that drinking does impair their ability to drive and that they must act accordingly. Obviously the functions at which both sexes were present are by far the best, for only in a few cases was it evident that both the lady and the gentleman would have some difficulty in driving home. Whilst it must be accepted that the testing done was not very reliable, as in some cases it was difficult to know just how long it was since the person had had a drink, and without the 20-minute period of abstinence the test meant very little Still, a picture did emerge. This was unfortunately a disturbing aspect: the higher the test level, the greater was the participant's belief to do all things well, driving included. In fact it was obvious that,

as viewed through the alcoholic haze, the tester became a menace, busy body, spoil sport and other unprintables. This could well be the case if it wasn t for the fact that these people eventually have to travel on a public highway. With the number of Christmas parties on in our town over the next week there will be plenty of 'drinking and driving." This is inevitable, but with just a little thought for others and a check on drinking, a compromise can be reached; people can go to parties, have fun, and still not be a menace to every road-user. All members of the Taupo Road Safety Organisation were heartened by the overwhelming attendance at the recent showing of the "Signal 30" film. The man and woman in the street showed that they are interested. This of course will be truly reflected in our behaviour.