With Super Bowl 48 taking place tomorrow, Manchester Township Police want to remind the public to stay safe and sober behind the wheel on what has historically been one of the most dangerous weekends of the year. In 2008 when the New York Giants played in the Super Bowl, police in New Jersey arrested 176 drunk drivers, the second highest total ever in the State of New Jersey on a Super Bowl Sunday. In order to keep our roadways safe, Manchester Township Police have added additional patrol officers, specifically designated to the detection and apprehension of impaired drivers. Manchester Police would also like to remind the public that reports of suspected drunk and or aggressive drivers can be made to police by dialing #77.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers the following Safety Tips for Super Bowl Sunday.
If you are attending a Super Bowl Party:
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol too fast. Pace yourself – eat, take breaks, alternate with non-alcoholic drinks.
- Designate a sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car keys.
- If impaired, don’t even think about getting behind the wheel. Ask a sober friend for a ride home; call a cab, friend or family member to come and get you; or stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.
- Remember: Friends Don’t Let Friends Drive Drunk. Take the keys and never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive while impaired.
If you are hosting a Super Bowl Party:
- Make sure there’s ample food and non-alcoholic beverages available.
- Stop serving alcohol at the beginning of the third quarter. Instead, offer guests coffee and dessert.
- Be sure that all guests have designated their drivers in advance, or help to arrange ride-sharing with sober drivers.
- Have the phone number of a local cab company available, and always take the keys away from anyone who may be thinking of driving after drinking.