St. Patrick’s Day has become a celebration of Irish culture in which people of all backgrounds take part in the festivities, which often include alcohol. But far too often, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations end in tragedy because of drunk driving.
Whether your plans include gathering with friends at the local pub, hosting a party, or attending a local parade, the Parker Police Department is urging everyone to designate a sober driver and follow these simple tips:
Designate your sober driver or have an alternate transportation plan before the party begins.
* Avoid drinking too much alcohol too fast. Pace yourself – eat enough food, take breaks, and alternate with non-alcoholic drinks.
* If you don’t have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home; call a cab, friend, or family member to come and get you; or just stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.
* Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive and have had too much to drink.
* Always buckle up – it’s still your best defense against other drunk drivers.
If you are hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party:
* Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you served ends up in a drunk-driving crash.
* Make sure all of your guests designate their sober drivers in advance or help arrange alternate transportation.
* Serve lots of food and include lots of non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
* Stop serving alcohol sometime before the end of the party and begin serving coffee and dessert.
* Keep the numbers for local cab companies handy, and take the keys away from anyone who has had too much to drink.
The Parker Police Department urges you to celebrate responsibly this St. Patrick’s Day!!
The Parker Police Department will assign three dedicated DUI officers during the St. Patrick’s Day weekend for the enhanced detection of impaired driving offenses.
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