It’s almost that time of year again: Super Bowl Sunday. Of course, Wisconsin residents have much less to be excited about than we did last year. Despite another great season, the Packers were eliminated during the playoffs and will not be competing for the championship this weekend.
Nevertheless, football fans in Waukesha and around the state will be getting together with friends and family to watch the big game. Most of these celebrations will involve alcohol, and as in previous years, Wisconsin police will likely be stepping up DUI enforcement before, during and after the Super Bowl.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) is already working to spread the safety message by reminding game watchers to refrain from drunk driving. To that end, the DOT has announced plans to broadcast a federally funded anti-drunk-driving commercial. It will be shown both during the Super Bowl and throughout the month of February.
There is also likely to be an increased police presence on road this weekend working diligently to stop suspected drunk drivers.
If you will be drinking while watching the game outside of your own home, it is a good idea to have a designated driver lined up to make sure you get home safely and legally. Several options include relying on a non-drinking friend, taking public transportation or a taxi.
If hosting a Super Bowl party, it is also a good idea to provide plenty of non-alcoholic drinks and food help your guests mitigate the effects of any alcoholic drinks they consume. You may also want to coordinate with guests to designate a sober driver to make sure that everyone gets home safely.
Because the Packers are not involved, this year’s Super Sunday will certainly be less of a thrill than last year’s. However, Wisconsinites will still be enjoying the game while enjoying a few drinks. In order to make sure your game-day experience is not ruined by a DUI, please plan ahead and celebrate responsibly.
Source: Channel 3000, “DOT Officials Warn Against Drunken Driving Super Bowl Sunday,” Jan. 31, 2012