BRYAN, Texas — Tuesday is New Year's Eve and many will be celebrating the start of the new decade. Of course, having fun is not illegal, but the way some people may celebrate is. The Bryan Police Department is reminding everyone how to keep it safe as they ring in 2020.
"The number one thing is do not drink and drive," said Officer Kelley McKeathen of the Bryan Police Department.
Officers advise for people to plan ahead and have a sober ride. That could be using ride sharing apps, like Uber and Lyft, or designating a sober driver among family and friends.
"Make sure that the person you designate as the sober driver will also be the mediator to know when someone has had too much to drink and when it is time to leave," McKeathen said.
Law enforcement also want people to keep in mind a few thing if they're planning on celebrating at home.
Fireworks are illegal in the city limits. Police say to not open and discharge any within the the city limits, or people run the risk of getting a citation.
Police also ask the those celebrating to keep any music and noise at an acceptable level.
"If (officers) are driving down the road and can hear it halfway down the block, that is excessive," McKeathen said.
It never fails. Many people ring in the New Year with celebratory gunfire. Officer McKeathen says it's important to be aware of Newton's third law of motion.
"Just remember what goes up must come down and typically it comes down in someones residence, car or something like that," McKeathen said.
Streets will be filled with more officers on patrol to help with calls on New Year's Eve night. The Bryan Police Department is asking if anyone sees any suspicious activity to call it in right away.
"There will be people who don't listen and don't have that sober ride and there is typically someone who is intoxicated on the roadway," McKeathen said.
If anyone does see someone who they suspect of drunk driving and calls law enforcement, McKeathen is asking the caller to follow them at a safe distance and give dispatch updates of their location so help can get to you sooner.