New Year’s Eve safety tips
COSHOCTON – Christmas is over for another year and New Year’s Eve is right around the corner. While you and your friends ring in the New Year with parties, food, and maybe some alcohol, please keep in mind these New Year’s Eve safety tips from Sheriff Tim Rogers that can be the difference between life and death.
Please drink responsibly, and if you’re planning on throwing back a few drinks, have a designated driver on hand to make sure you get home safely.
“We always encourage designated drivers,” said Rogers. “Make these arrangements prior to the party. If you consume a lot of alcohol, make sure it’s completely out of your system before you drive. Eat plenty of food and drink plenty of water. That helps to absorb the alcohol.”
On New Year’s Eve, extra deputies will be out and as always, there will be a zero tolerance for driving under the influence.
“We’re not out there to arrest everyone we see,” said Rogers. “We just want to make sure that everyone has a safe and happy holiday.”
If you’re out with friends on New Year’s Eve, there are some signs to look for to tell if your friend has had a little too much to drink including bloodshot eyes, the way they walk and stand, if their speech is slurred, or if their communication is poor. If you notice any of these signs, take their keys away from them and call a taxi.
“If you have problems, call us,” said Rogers. “We’d rather deal with that than deal with a fatality.”
Rogers said their main goal is to make sure everyone gets home safely.
“We hope they enjoy the holidays,” he said. “Social drinking is not a big issue with us. Just don’t get behind the wheel.”
Remember to never leave your drink unattended. Other people can slip things into your drink while you are away. Also, make sure your vehicle is locked securely.
Don’t forget to tear apart large boxes after Christmas and throw them away. Do not leave them intact out on the sidewalk. Other people driving by can see what you have in your home.
“People drive around and look for those kinds of things and they know you have it in your house,” said Rogers.
If you have any problems, call the Sheriff’s office at 622-2411.
beth@coshoctoncountybeacon.com
Category: People & Places
