Stay Safe on New Year's Eve

First things first: don't drink and drive. It's that simple. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 10,839 people will die in drunk-driving accidents this year.

Some people may argue that they can handle the wheel, even after a few drinks. Although their record may be squeaky clean now, most drunk drivers have driven 80+ times before they actually get busted for the first time.

New Year's Eve is a time when cab drivers are expecting to be called upon. Don't waste the resources for a safe and sober ride home. Add one of these phone numbers to your speed dial and save it in your contacts as "Taxi" or "Cab":

• Bay & Beach Taxi: 813-425-4900
• Independent Taxi: 727-327-3444
• Yellow Cab, St. Pete: 727-328-8685
• Bats Taxi: 727-367-3702

Now that we've got the drinking and driving issue tackled, let's talk about firework safety. New Year's Eve is second in line to the Fourth of July for homemade firework displays.

Neighborhoods around the state will celebrate the clock's stroke of midnight with sparklers and other types of Florida-approved fireworks, like glow worms and booby traps. Other than common sense, there are a few tips that will help keep you safe from burn or bodily harm while lighting your fireworks.

• Be Prepared- Make sure you always have a bucket and water hose nearby in case of an emergency.
• One at a Time- Only light one firework at a time, not two or three.
• Supervise- Don't let children handle fireworks without the assistance of an adult.
• Leave Duds Alone- Never try to relight a "dead" firework or one that has already been used.
• Outside Only- Be sure to keep fireworks on hard, flat surfaces that are clear of houses, dry grass and buildings.