Tips to Drive Safely This Weekend

Expect to be targeted by Barrington police this weekend if you drink and drive -- especially if you are underage.

Additional police officers will be on the lookout for drivers who have been drinking.  It’s all in the name of safety.

You won't get a warning -- especially if you're underage. The police operate a zero-tolerance policy. You will be charged.

Last year, approximately 10,500 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That’s not a surprise. Historically, holiday periods see more alcohol-related crashes.

You will probably be celebrating the New Year with friends this weekend. You don't want to be charged with a DUI. And you don't want to be a statistic.

Before you head out for a New Year's Eve party, take a peek at the following ways to stay safe this holiday:

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin.
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home.
• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or a family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely.
• If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact the Barrington police.
• Remember, "buzzed driving is drunk driving." If you know people who are about to drive or who will be riding with someone who is impaired, take the driver’s keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.