These differences – 25% less body water than men, and less enzymes in their stomach and liver to break down alcohol in their system, means that alcohol goes through a woman’s system undiluted, and in higher concentrations. Research has shown given a man and a woman, both the same weight and physical condition, and given 3 standard drinks of alcohol in an hour – women consistently show a higher BAC level than the man. Women are often the designated drivers and if she consumes 2 or more standard drinks, she could show an elevated blood alcohol level of .08 and above.

The legal consequence for driving while impaired, or registering .08 or over on a breath or blood test is as follows: 1st Offence – 1 year suspension, 2nd offence – 5 yr. suspension, 3rd Offence- 10 yr. suspension and a lifetime suspension for 4 or more charges for impaired driving within a 10 yr. period. You will also receive 10 demerit points on your license from the Motor Vehicle Branch. If you refuse a breathalyser the penalties are more severe. 1st Offense – 2 yr. suspension, 2nd Offence – 7 yr. suspension, and 3rd Offence – 10 yr. suspension and forfeiture of your vehicle.

If your car is in an accident you can legally be held responsible for the damage or injuries others claim against you – even though you were not driving, or in the car at the time. If your BAC registers .08 or you have a blood test result that exceeds .08, it is punishable under the Criminal Code. If another person is driving your car while intoxicated, and the person was in an accident you are not covered for the damages and injuries to the individual driving. Nor, are you covered for the damage or injury to the other person.

Impaired driving is the leading cause of criminal death in Canada, and the #1 cause of death of Canadian youth. “Driving under the Influence” (DUI), is the term used in Canada since 1921, to describe the criminal offense of operating a motor vehicle, while the person’s ability is impaired by alcohol or drugs. “Driving While Impaired” includes: Swerving and weaving; jerky, sudden movements, failure to follow traffic signs and signals, tail-gaiting, or mishandling of vehicle equipment. The two terms can refer to the same offence, or the state you were in when you were pulled over.

SRWC is a unique, welcoming, recovery-oriented community, accompanying individuals, families and friends affected by substance abuse in their journey towards recovery. We offer, group individual, couples counselling, and family counselling and education programs during the day and evening, co-ed and gender specific programs and support for individuals and their families. The Access, program for those awaiting a program of their choice, Exploring Options participating in a recovery plan, gender specific Continuing Recovery Program, or our co-ed evening Work Sober Program focusing on recovery maintenance. We support your recovery by helping you find the services you need.

March 8 is International Women’s Day. The Government of Canada’s theme for 2022 is Women Inspiring Women. As a business, celebrate all the women who inspire us by demonstrating their leadership contributions to social, economic, cultural, and political spheres. Female leaders are known to encourage collaboration, provide more empathy and support to employees leading to a culture of engagement, retention, diversity, and compliance. Women in leadership positions also have significant positive impacts in the workplace i.e., increased profitability and client retention. If you are a woman in leadership, consider being a role model for other women through networking or mentoring.

Research indicates that the sooner one accepts help for their mental health and substance abuse problem – as in any health-related problem – the better the prognosis for recovery. Those closest to the individual, employers, co-workers, friends and family, are often in the best position to intervene and support them in their recovery journey. SRWC can assist in the intervention process.

Be mindful of the Federal Health Guidelines for the use of alcohol in moderation and avoiding high risk situations. The Federal Health Guidelines state that safe levels of use for women is one drink a day or less, and two drinks a day or less for men. These recommended safe use amounts can assist in avoiding health related risks such as high blood pressure, stroke, liver, and colon cancer. High risk activities include driving while over the limit, taking over-the-counter and prescription medications that interact with alcohol, or drinking and participating in activities which require skill, coordination, and alertness.

Your HELP is vital to saving lives. Be a HERO today. Donations of money or time can make a big difference to a small local charity like SRWC Wellness Centre. For over 26 years, SRWC has helped people from all walk of life find their personal recovery path. SRWC supports recovery and harm reduction for substance abuse, addictions, and other mental health issues. You can donate over the phone by calling Candace at 204-956-6650 ext. 104, or mail a check or a money order to: St. Raphael Wellness Centre Inc. 2nd floor, 225 Vaughan Street Winnipeg, MB, R3C 1T7. Donations can also be completed online.