6 Things OKC Police Want You To Know To Stay Safe This New Year's Eve

Ahead of New Year’s Eve, law enforcement agencies are reminding folks to drive safe and sober, amid an annual spike in DUI arrests.

Here are six things officials want you to know to stay safe this New Year's Eve.

1. Law Enforcement is Already Cracking Down

Metro law enforcement agencies already arrested more than two dozen people over the weekend for driving under the influence.

2. The Consequences of Drunk Driving Are Serious

“Unfortunately, in a city this size, we see drunk drivers every night,” Gary Knight with OCPD said. “It can carry some pretty heavy consequences.”

Drunk driving kills more than 200 Oklahomans a year, according to state data. “It's always tragic when we see something like that, but it always seems more tragic around the holidays,” Knight said.

3. A Simple Reminder for the Holidays

Ahead of New Year’s Eve, a holiday that keeps many out late drinking, Knight has a simple reminder:

“Please, just take the time to think ahead a little bit.”

An Uber, Lyft or ride from a friend is an alternative that could save a life.

“Those alternatives are always better than getting behind the wheel, intoxicated,” Knight said. “We just want to drive home the message that there's alternatives out there. So seek out those alternatives.”

4. Even 2 or 3 Drinks Can Put You Over the Limit

While it's different for everyone, even 2 or 3 drinks can put you over the legal limit, so Oklahoma City Police urges anyone who thinks they might drink on New Year's Eve to just go ahead and plan on using a rideshare option.

5. DUI Consequences Are Costly

Driving under the influence can carry tens of thousands of dollars in fines and, in some cases, losing your driver's license or jail time.

6. Officers Will Be Vigilant on New Year’s Eve

“It kills people. And so it's something that officers take seriously,” Knight said. “Let's all try to have a safe new year.”

Officers will be vigilant on New Year’s Eve to ensure a safe holiday.