By Staff
We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and prosperous new year.
We would also like to take this opportunity to stress that while it is okay to celebrate the arrival of 2006, also take the time to make sure your celebration doesn't end on a tragic note.
Michigan State Police are going to be making sure that they do their part to make the holiday weekend a safe one on the highways.
The You Drink and Drive. You Lose campaign began back on Dec. 19 and will continue through New Year's Day.
The Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning provided federal funds to almost 100 agencies to help boost patrols.
If you plan on going to a party or to an establishment where alcoholic beverages are going to be served, make sure you do not drive.
There are three very simple rules to make sure you do not become a statistic this season, according to the state police:
Designate a sober driver.
Take a cab.
Spend the night.
State police also urge party hosts to serve non-alcoholic “mocktails” to designated drivers.
Despite their best efforts, law enforcement officials are still confronted with too many drunk drivers and handle too many traffic accidents involving alcohol.
According to state police statistics, 418 traffic fatalities in 2004 involved alcohol and/or drugs.
In 2005 four people were killed during the Christmas holiday season and another six during the last New Year's holiday.
Please take time to make sure your guests enjoy the New Year's holiday and that they get home safely.
Just by following the simple tips listed above, we can help to keep our friends and loved ones alive as we arrive in 2006.