From Lima Allen County Regional Planning Commission

St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the United States extend as far back as the American colonial period and is one of our nation’s most popular holidays, celebrated with festivals, parades and parties. These celebrations frequently feature themed cocktails and green pints, and the amount of alcohol consumed is higher than average.

Lima is no different boasting the annual celebration of the Lima Irish Parade this Saturday, March 16 and St. Patrick’s Day Sunday, March 17. People are more likely to make poor decisions as a result, including driving while intoxicated.

To spread the message about the dangers of drunk driving and to help keep your community’s streets safe the Ohio State Highway Patrol as well as the Allen County Sheriff’s Office will have extra officers on patrol March 15-17.

Don’t Press Your Luck This St. Patrick’s Day! If you are attending a St. Patrick’s Day celebration and plan on consuming alcohol:

• Designate a sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car keys
• Be sure to eat food and drink water alongside your alcoholic beverages
• Buzzed driving is drunk driving – if you have a “buss”, don’t even think about getting behind the wheel. Ask a sober friend for a ride home or call a cab, friend, or family member who can come get you.