PONTIAC (WWJ) During the holiday season, many Metro Detroiters are ready to take some time off work, relax, and maybe tie one on ... for safety.
What's going on here?
In partnership with MADD, the Michigan State Police Metro North Post is kicking off its "Tie One On For Safety" campaign
"We're going into the holidays hoping everybody finds a plan to get home," explained MSP First Lt. Mike Shaw, speaking to WWJ's Charlie Langton at the M1 Concourse in Pontiac.
"That way we don't end up either taking somebody to jail or telling a family that they've lost a loved one due to impaired driving."
From Nov. 16 to Dec. 31, the MADD Tie One On For Safety Holiday Campaign urges you to designate a sober driver and to hand over your keys, asserting: "It's more important to get home late and alive, than to risk driving drunk or even buzzed."
For those who use marijuana, the message is the same.
"Absolutely!" Shaw said. "So, if you're going to have alcohol at a party or smoke a little weed, whatever it is that you do, just make sure that you have a plan where it doesn't evolve getting behind the wheel."
Every year, hundreds of families receive a knock at the door informing them a loved one was taken from them due to a senseless decision made under the influence of alcohol, MADD says. The decision is 100% preventable.
Consider taking these actions when celebrating:
• Give your sober driver a red ribbon.
• Hostesses provide non-alcoholic drinks for sober drivers, so your guests get home safely.
• Offer the spare bedroom or sofa in a pinch.
• Take turns being the sober driver.
• Keep a reliable taxi or driver service on your phone.
Learn more about the campaign at this link.
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