Staying safe, driving sober on New Year’s Eve

BOWLING GREEN, Ky-2020 is upon us and that means plenty of celebrations which will include alcohol and fireworks. But staying safe and out of legal trouble can mean not only calling a cab but watching how much alcohol you consume on New Year’s Eve.

Officer Ronnie Ward of the Bowling Green Police Department says one of the biggest dangers of the New Year’s holiday is drunk driving. He says it’s dangerous not only for the driver who may have consumed too much alcohol but also for other drivers on the road. And it can not only end a human life, it can also cause grief and hardship for the surviving family members. Officer Ward tells WNKY News there simply isn’t an excuse for driving under the influence and calling a taxi or a friend is the only option.

Alcohol can bring on a personal risk even off the road. Dr.  Mamauag at the emergency department at TriStar Greenview Regional Hospital says drinking too much alcohol can impair the user’s sense of judgment. And that can mean using dangerous items such as fireworks-with disastrous outcomes. Mamauag says misusing fireworks can lead to burns, cuts and even losing fingers, hands and arms. He also says play it safe if you’re feeling sick-stay home so you don’t make friends and family members sick as well. And if you’re going to be outside, dress for cold weather.