By By ERIKA PICKLES / Niles Daily Star
NILES – Niles area law enforcement agencies are on alert year-round for drunk drivers. But on New Year's night, you can count on those agencies to be out in full force, making sure the roadways stay safe for you and your family on a night when people may not make the best decisions behind the wheel.
Niles City Police Capt. Jim Merriman said when it comes to drinking, having a designated driver is always top priority.
"This is one of the most important steps you can take to keeping yourself and others safe on the roadways," Merriman said.
Even if you're not drinking, Merriman said it's important for all drivers to pay attention to other drivers.
"If you see a suspicious driver, call and report them. This could not only save someone else's life, but it could save the impaired driver's life as well," he said.
Merriman added that absolutely no breaks are given for those that are caught driving drunk. "The days of cutting slack and giving rides home are over. It's a dangerous situation and the last thing we want to do is ruin someone's year – or the rest of their life – by knocking on their door and telling them a loved one was in an accident," Merriman said.
He also said those who do choose to drink should drink responsibly.
Local bars and taverns are making the New Year's celebration a little easier for area residents, especially when it comes to being safe. B&J Pub closes its doors for a reservation-only party, and always has two designated drivers.
"It's something we've always done. If someone needs a ride home, we make sure they have a safe way getting there," said Maureen Koller, who owns the Pub with her husband, Gary.
Other bars, like Jay's Lounge in Niles, Hide-A-Way Lounge and The Tavern, offer free soft drinks for those who choose not to drink.
"We absolutely offer soft free drinks. We even allow those not 21 years old yet inside, but not younger than 19, as long as they are with their parents or legal guardians. We keep a close on everyone here, make sure no one gets too out of hand and we also watch for people who may slip their designated drivers a drink. I don't take any chances, especially when it comes to safety," said Denny Trowbridge, owner of Hide-A-Way Lounge.
Lou Thwaits, owner of The Tavern, said she offers free soft drinks not only on New Year's Eve, but year round.
"If we know someone is not drinking, we will give them free soft drinks, water. That's something we've always done," Thwaits said. Law enforcement officials and bar owners alike know the importance of being safe on the roadways and hope that everyone makes the right decisions before getting behind the wheel.