Don’t press your luck! If you plan to go out or throw a shindig at home for St. Patrick’s Day, it’s important to be responsible and drink responsibly. Unfortunately, St. Patrick’s Day is one of the deadliest days on the roads in the U.S. * If you plan to drink this St. Patrick’s Day, keep these safety tips in mind.
Have a Designated Driver
Don’t drink and drive if you plan to go out for St. Patrick’s Day. Instead, select a designated driver before you go out, and stick to your plan.
Use the Buddy System
Plan to pair up with a trusted friend or two, and don’t leave your friend unattended for too long. Make sure you’re looking out for one another and have shared your location with each other before you head out for the night.
Don’t Leave Your Drink Unattended
Never leave your drink unattended, and never take a drink that has been opened by someone else.
Don’t Drink on an Empty Stomach
It’s best to eat before you go out. And stay hydrated. Although it won’t keep you from feeling the effects of alcohol, it will keep you hydrated. It’s recommended that you have a glass of water with every alcoholic drink you have. **
St. Patrick’s Day Party at Home Safety Tips
If you’re hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party this holiday, you can encourage party goers to drink responsibly as well. Here are several St. Patrick’s Day safety tips to ensure your guests have a safe, but fun time. ***
- Make sure your guests have a designated driver
- Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages
- Stop serving alcohol a few hours before the end of the party
- Take the keys away from anyone who shouldn’t be driving at the end of the night
Know the signs of an alcohol emergency
If you notice an unconscious or semi-conscious person with a pale or bluish color to their skin or abnormal breathing, call 911 immediately, even if they are not of legal drinking age. Never assume they will “sleep it off,” as high intoxication levels can be deadly.
*Traffic Safety Marketing, “St. Patrick’s Day”
**Aultman, “St. Patrick’s Day Safety”
***NHTSA, “Don’t Test Your Luck This St. Patrick’s Day”
