Yes, there actually is a 5 – leaf clover, which is a mutation of the 4 – leaf clover that does appear occasionally. The superstition is the 5 –leaf clover is for extra good luck. On St. Patrick’s Day, you won’t need good luck, but common sense to make it a great St. Paddy’s Day and not a Paddy Wagon Day!
Predetermine a safe way to get home for you and your friends. Whether you’re watching a parade or going to or hosting a party, ensure everyone in your group has a safe means of returning home if you plan to drink. Select a designated driver, arrange for a cab, plot a bus route, or figure out a nearby place you can crash for the night. It’s a good idea to keep route maps of local public transportation, as well as the numbers for taxi companies handy during the day.
Eat. Drinking on an empty stomach is a good way to end your St. Paddy’s day a lot earlier than planned. Make sure to get some nutrients in you to help absorb that alcohol.
Stay hydrated. Getting enough water will also help keep the party going on longer, and decrease the likelihood you’ll have a March 18th hangover. It’s a Thursday, so you’ll probably (hopefully) have important things to do, like work.
If you feel impaired, don’t get behind the wheel. In the eyes of the law, impaired driving is drunk driving, and even if you feel fine, a breathalyzer might not concur. With all the checkpoints on the roads, it’s best to play it extra safe. If you have even the least bit of doubt, don’t drive.
Be extra cautious on the roads. Just because you’re a safe and sober driver doesn’t mean other people are. A disproportionate of traffic accidents on St. Patrick’s Day are caused by people driving under the influence. Whether you’re driving or just crossing the street on foot, keep your awareness levels high.
Be Safe and most importantly, Be Smart!
Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
