Spring 2010

Residents' Opinions about Alcohol Important for Local Coalition Efforts - Communities with High Levels of Alcohol-Related Problems Targeted for Survey

Crawford County recorded 29 alcohol-related motor-vehicle injuries and five fatalities in the past two years according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation Report 2005-2007. In addition, 20.5% of Crawford County residents binge drink as documented with Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System 2008-2009.

In Spring 2009, C.A.R.E. (Crawford Abuse Resistance Effort) of Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital received a grant to work with communities in Crawford County and reduce alcohol-related motor vehicle injuries and fatalities. In order to better understand the community they’re working with C.A.R.E. has teamed up with the University of Wisconsin-Madison to conduct a survey of local residents’ opinions about alcohol use and impaired driving in their communities.

This important survey is being conducted in nine counties across the State of Wisconsin, including Crawford County. These counties’ rates of alcohol-related motor-vehicle injuries and fatalities and binge drinking are among the highest in Wisconsin. Wisconsin itself tops the nation at 23% of residents reporting binge drinking. The information gathered from the survey will be used to help communities and local coalitions focus on alcohol-related issues that are important to the community.

Although alcohol use affects everyone, only about 400 people in Crawford County have been randomly selected to participate in this survey. Because only a small number of people have been selected, it is very important that those who receive a survey, even those who do not drink alcohol, complete and return the survey.

If you have questions about the survey or are interested in participating in your local coalition, please contact C.A.R.E. Program Director Rick Peterson at 608/357-2087.