Play it safe this Halloween

To the editor

For some, Halloween is a spooky time of year. A day filled with zombies and witches. People go to haunted houses or curl up on the couch to watch one of the many scary movies on TV. Halloween is also a time for laughter and fun. If it’s not children dressing up to get candy, its adults throwing costume parties. One thing is for certain, though. Everyone needs to be safe this Halloween. 

Alcohol is a major party favor when it comes to Halloween. If you are an adult, I am not telling you to not drink, I’m just saying, let’s be responsible. Here are some tips.

If you plan on drinking, then you should find a designated driver. Before you leave your home to go to a bar or party, make sure you have a ride home. Not only do you need to find a designated driver, you need to find a designated driver that isn’t going to drink or consume any amount of alcohol.

If you still feel as if you may be tempted to drink and drive, then hide your car keys or give them to a sober friend. Of course, if you don’t drive to the bar, then you’ll be less likely to drive after drinking. However, if you drive yourself to a party or to the bar, then it’s imperative your car keys are out of reach. Though you may not plan on drinking and driving, you can never be too sure how alcohol will affect your judgment.

Remember, it is illegal to provide alcohol to people under the age of 21, but if you’re old enough to consume alcohol and plan on doing so, then it’s important to always drink responsibly. If you make the decision to drink and drive, you will put yourself and others in danger. No matter what the circumstances may be, it’s vital to always avoid drinking and driving.

Let’s have fun this Halloween, but let’s stay safe.

Ally Raines

Jay County Drug Prevention Coalition