Camillus Police are reminding drivers of the dangers of drunk driving as Onondaga County residents gear up for St. Patrick’s Day.

“Whether you are meeting a few friends at the local pub after work or attending the St. Patrick’s Day parade this Saturday, if you plan on using alcohol, never drive while impaired—and never let your friends drive if you think they are impaired,” said Captain Steve Rotunno.

Rotunno and the Camillus Police recommends these tips to keep safe:

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin
• Before drinking, please designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home
• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely
• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact your local law enforcement
• And remember, if you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.

“Driving impaired is simply not worth the risk,” Rotunno said. “Not only do you risk killing yourself or someone else, but the trauma and financial costs of a crash or an arrest for driving while impaired can be really significant. Don’t depend on dumb luck this St. Patrick’s Day. Designate your sober driver before the party begins.”