Some important reminders for a safe St. Patrick’s Holiday!
Keep the images of shamrocks, leprechauns, pots of gold, and good luck on St. Patrick’s Day!
Today, March 17 marks the arrival of Christianity in Ireland as well as the death of the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. For many Americans, both Irish and non-Irish, St. Patrick’s Day is a day to celebrate Irish American Culture with much drinking, dressing in green garb, and revelry. It is rated the fourth most drinking day on the calendar.
Unfortunately, too much alcohol can cause loss of judgment, reduced inhibitions, slower reaction times, increased risk taking behaviors, and bad decisions. As a result, DUIs and alcohol related incidents, including fighting, disorderly conduct, urinating in public, and criminal damage charges tend to skyrocket on this evening. Thus, it is no surprise that law enforcement will be patrolling in greater numbers tonight.
Here is a list of ways to keep the luck of the Irish and avoid unwanted contact with law enforcement:
- Designate a Sober and Responsible Person that will ensure you return home safely after your night of revelry before you take your first drink. Remember it is not just driving that can become impaired with alcohol, judgment can also become impaired.
- If you are the sober driver, do not text and drive or drive distracted.
- If your sober driver flakes on you, do not get in your car or drive for any reason if you have been drinking. Have an alternate means of transportation to get home.
- Leave your car keys at home.
- Consume one glass or more of water between each drink to slow down your drinking.
- Remember only time reduces the alcohol concentration in your body, so if you have had too much to drink on Tuesday night or early Wednesday morning, you may still be impaired by alcohol Wednesday morning. This means that you need a sober driver to take you to work or school.
An Irish Blessing for those who celebrate today:
May the Irish hills caress you.
May her lakes and rivers bless you.
May the luck of the Irish enfold you.
May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.