With the Cyclones going to the Insight Bowl and the Hawks to the Orange Bowl, it is an exciting time for college football fans in Iowa, and the Newton Police Department is reminding local fans to cheer on their teams and take in the gridiron greatness responsibly.
During 2008, 81 Iowans died in motor vehicle accidents in which at least one driver had a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher. In the same year an additional 1,523 Iowans sustained injuries in drunken driving accidents.
The Newton Police Department suggests the following:
• Make the right play. When you’ve been drinking, toss the keys and catch a safe and sober ride. Remember: Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.
• Make sure your college bowl party doesn’t end with a crash: Choose a designated driver before the game begins. Support that person in their choice to stay sober.
• Take a cab or public transportation to and from your bowl party.
• Watch the big game at home. Then travel isn’t necessary.
• When in doubt, toss the keys out.
• Sleep it off, if you’ve had too much to drink. Time is on your side.
• When you see a friend or fan that has had too much to drink, do whatever it takes to stop them from driving drunk.
• If you suspect another fan is operating under the influence of alcohol, do the right thing and call 911. You could be saving someone’s life.
When you and your friends arrive home safely from the big game, everyone wins.