by Sgt. Matthew Waugh
12/31/2013

The Holliston Police Department would like everyone to have a fun and, more importantly, a safe New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.  For this reason, we would like to pass on a few tips to assist in making the holiday a successful one.

1.       Do not drink and drive!

     Everyone knows not to drink and drive, but it can never be said enough. All it takes is one stupid decision and lives can be changed forever. Nationwide, the holiday season is a particularly deadly time due to the high number of drunk drivers on the roads. According to the NHTSA in 2011, 760 people lost their lives as a result of drunk-driving-related crashes during the month of December.  Drinking and driving endangers yourself, your passengers, and those on the road around you. Throughout the state, extra patrols will be deployed for the specific goal of countering drunk driving.

Plan Ahead and Never Drink and Drive

·       Even one drink can impair your judgment and increase the risk of getting arrested for driving drunk—or worse, the risk of having a crash while driving.

·        If you will be drinking, do not plan on driving.  Plan ahead; designate a sober driver before the party begins.

·        If you have been drinking, do not drive. Call a taxi, phone a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation.

·        Be responsible. If someone you know is drinking, do not let that person get behind the wheel.

·        If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement. Your actions may save someone’s life, and inaction could cost a life. 

Remember: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over

2.               Wear your seatbelt. 

     Simply stated, there is no easier thing you can do that provides the greatest chance that you survive a crash.

3.               Stay alert and plan ahead.

·         Be prepared.  Whether you are staying home, visiting friends, or heading into the city plan ahead.  Watch the weather, be prepared for winter driving conditions and decide on your best methods of travel.

·         Be aware.  Know that criminals seek out large crowds and easy targets, like intoxicated people.  Know where you are and where you are going.  Keep track of your money and other valuables.

·         Be a hard target.  Protect yourself and your property.  If leaving your house or car, lock the doors.  Keep valuables out of sight.  If leaving your house for extended periods of time, make it look like someone is there.  Request vacation checks of your property, a service provided by the Department.

4.               Have fun!

Enjoy your time with friends and family and celebrate the successes of the past year and the excitement of the future.  We at the Department wish you all a safe, happy, and successful New Year