It’s the 4^th of July!!

What does that mean?  Outside of barbecues, family and friends gathering, fireworks and sunburn, it also means planning for safe driving.

Did you know that over the past 25 years, almost 51% of fatal crashes are alcohol related, according to NHTSA?

We Save Lives recommends:

Stay as close to home as possible or better yet, celebrate at home.  There are too many crazy drivers on the road.

Do not speed!  The barbecue will still be there, better late than dead.

Save the beer for when you get home.

If you serve alcohol for people who are driving, make arrangements for them to get home safely.

• Designate a driver who remains alcohol free
• Call a taxi, if necessary
• Let your guests stay over if they are too drunk to drive

Use your cell phone before you get in the car and turn it off before you begin driving.  If you are lost or have an emergency and must use it, pull off the road.  No phone call or text is worth a life.

Stay awake!  Stay alert!

Wear your seatbelt.

If you ride a bicycle or motorcycle, wear a helmet and protective clothing.

Keep your headlights on.

Do not use drugs and drive.

If you are taking prescription medicines check to see if it is safe to drive.  If not, don’t.

If you follow these tips, the life you save may be your own or that of someone close to you.

Happy July 4^th from We Save Lives.