A holiday that has grown in popularity across the United States, Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexico’s victory over France in 1862 during the Battle of Puebla. The fifth of May is a day to celebrate Mexican heritage and culture and many like to join in by indulging in traditional drinks and cuisine.
This year Cinco de Mayo is unique not only because it lands on a Tuesday, but because we are able to celebrate it at home. As we plan our celebration with takeout menus and online recipes, it’s important to consider the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected” order and connect with others safely. Whether it is maintaining a distance of 6 feet, meeting over video chat or on the phone, we must do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19. Whatever form our home celebrations take, its essential to plan ahead to ensure no one gets behind the wheel of a car after they have been drinking. Consider including the following tips in your planning to make sure all have a safe, enjoyable, and law-abiding Cinco de Mayo.
- Make sure to start your festivities by drinking plenty of water and eating plenty of snacks.
- Keep track of how much your drinking by setting timers to avoid drinking too much too fast.
- If you must travel set up a rider share app ahead to time, don’t wait until your last drink.
- Never get in a car with a driver who is impaired.
- If you’re out on the road and see an impaired driver, don’t engage. Pull over and call the police.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, almost 30 people in the U.S. die every day in drunk driving crashes. There is no excuse for choosing to drive while impaired, plan ahead and help keep our roads safe.