The week between Christmas and New Years often involves holiday parties.
Whether it’s New Year’s Day, New Year’s Eve, or some time between now and then, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll participate in a holiday party. In many cases, that means alcoholic beverages will be served.
There’s nothing wrong with adults 21 years of age and older celebrating the holiday season with an alcoholic beverage or two, but there’s plenty wrong with driving a motor vehicle after having too much to drink.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious crime because it is dangerous. It not only puts your life in danger, it puts the lives of everyone else who might be on the road in danger.
Such a bad decision on what is meant to be a festive occasion can destroy entire families.
Area police agencies say officers will be out in force all this week and next, paying special attention for drunken drivers. So just don’t do it, and don’t allow family members or friends you are out with do it either.
Instead, police recommend people designate a driver who is not drinking. Or, perhaps those who have been drinking can stay where they are for the night. Also, police say that those celebrating New Year’s Eve at a bar might be able to check with those establishments, as some likely will provide a ride to those who are too intoxicated to drive.
And, of course, people can always choose not to drink.
Underage drinking also is a bad idea, it doesn’t matter whether it’s at a birthday party, a New Year’s Eve bash or at an aunt’s house. It’s not allowed. There are no special rules during the holiday season.
Have a great week and a merry new year, but do so safely.
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The Morris Daily Herald Editorial Board is led by editors Patrick Graziano and Mark Malone. It makes its editorial decisions in consultation with other members of the Herald staff.