With the holiday season in full swing, officials at the Henry and Stark County Health Departments urge everyone to prioritize safety, especially on the roads. Increased festivities often mean more travel and a higher risk of impaired driving. Party hosts are encouraged to offer non-alcoholic beverages, provide food, and always arrange for designated drivers or alternative transportation for guests who have been drinking. Drivers are advised to avoid traveling between midnight and 3 AM—peak times for alcohol-related incidents—and to adjust travel plans in case of icy or snowy weather. Simple precautions now can help ensure a joyful and safe holiday for all.
- Plan ahead. Always designate a non-drinking driver before any holiday party or celebration begins.
- Take the keys. Don’t let friends drive if they are impaired.
- Have cab/driver options and apps on hand. If someone should not be driving, but they insist on going home, call or arrange a driver for them instead of allowing them to take the risk of driving home.
- Offer plenty of non-alcoholic drinks. While many guests may want to enjoy the holidays with an alcoholic drink, offer non-alcoholic drinks as an option.
- Offer food if you’re offering alcohol. Drinking on an empty stomach can cause a person to become intoxicated faster. Offering food along with drinks may help prevent guests from over-indulging on alcohol alone.