Why is the simplest strategy for remaining alcohol-free simply to avoid situations where alcohol is present?

The simplest strategy for remaining alcohol-free is to avoid alcohol-based situations because you can't be tempted to drink alcohol if it is not around you and there is no chance for you to consume it. An 'out of sight, out of mind' principle works here - if it is not in your immediate frame of reference, you will not be tempted to think about it and then you will be less likely to consume it.

True it's the strategy

Cotton with iron probably