We were going to write a witty post for today… after all this holiday means many things to different people… however… in the interest of keeping it simple and bringing you the most important information… we’ve decided to share this press release that we got from the Vermont State Police… because you are important and we want you to stay safe! Please share!
“Vermonters are preparing to observe the St. Patrick’s Day holiday on Tuesday, March 17th. Some of the celebration may start on Sunday, March 15th or Monday, March 16th. Whether your plans include celebrating by gathering with friends at the local pub, hosting a party, or attending a local parade, the “Luck of the Irish” will not be enough to keep you out of trouble. The Vermont Governor’s Highway Safety Program (GHSP) suggests that finding a designated driver is not luck, it’s smart.
Death and injury as a result of impaired driving are avoidable. Use good common sense. Don’t drive if you’ve been drinking.
The GHSP staff also offers the following tips for a safe St. Patrick’s Day celebration:
-Designate your Sober/Designated driver or have an alternative transportation plan before the party begins.
-If you are hosting a party, remember, you may be responsible for the actions of your guests after they leave the party location.
-Avoid drinking any amount of alcohol too fast. Pace yourself and eat enough food, take breaks, and alternate with non-alcoholic drinks.
– Always remain alert while driving and never operate a vehicle if you are in need of sleep.
-If you don’t have a Designated Driver, ask a friend who hasn’t been drinking for a ride home. Call a cab, a friend or a family member to come and get you. Or, just stay where you are until you can get a safe ride home.
-Use your community’s “Sober Ride” program.
-Never let a friend out of your sight if you think they are about to drive and have had too much to drink. You can save their life and maybe others by keeping an impaired driver from getting behind the wheel.
-Always buckle up, for all trips.
-Prescription drugs or illicit drugs do not mix well with alcohol. Ingesting a combination can dramatically increase impairment levels and may cause extreme sickness or death.
-The Vermont DUI Task Force will be conducting extra impaired driving patrols throughout the entire weekend.
-Also on patrol, will be officers who are Drug Recognition Experts, trained to detect drug use by drivers.
Remember, “Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving”.”
