Stay Safe This New Year's Eve With Police, AAA Tips

As we bid farewell to 2010 and start fresh for the New Year, safety may not be top of mind during the holiday season.

While New Year's Eve is one of the most celebrated days of the year, it also can be one of the most dangerous. By simply using some common sense measures, 2011 has a better chance of starting off safely without a hitch.

Westlake Police Capt. Guy Turner and Heidi Marshall, Branch Office Manager Westlake AAA, offer the following tips to ring in the New Year safely.

• Dress appropriately for the weather: "I can't tell you how many times I see people dressed in high heels and a mini skirt with no jacket stranded on the side of the road," said Turner.
• Designate a driver: Plan ahead and designate a non-drinking driver before the celebration begins. Even if you've had only a couple of drinks, use the designated driver.
• Driving: Do not get behind the wheel of a car when you have been drinking. Westlake will have extra police officers on patrol New Year's Eve targeting drunk drivers and speeding. "We don't see the same level of drinking on New Year's Eve, but we will still make arrests," said Turner. According to the Ohio Department of Public Safety crash statistics, 390 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes in Ohio in 2009. Of those crashes, 37 fatalities happened between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day.
• Be a good host: If you are hosting a party, don't confuse pushing alcohol with being hospitable. Offer non-alcoholic beverage options. Make sure there is plenty of food. Don't hesitate to take the keys from friends or family members who are impaired. Be a real friend – call a taxi for those in need or invite guests to stay overnight.
• Be Alert: Be aware of your surroundings and how others are acting. Stay away from those who are out of control and might cause harm. When in large crowds, keep an eye on children.
• Car facts: Keep a winter survival kit in your car. The kit should include items such as an ice scraper, battery starter cables, blanket, flashlight, snowbrush, snow shovel, flares, window washing solvent and traction mats. Have at least half a tank of gas in your car. Clear ice and snow off your entire car. "If you get stranded in your car, make sure it is visible," said Marshall. Always wear your seatbelt.
• Fireworks: Loud noises are often associated with ringing in the New Year. Leave the fireworks to the professionals. Pets are especially sensitive to noise, keep them at a distance.