MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – New Year is a time for celebration, for many it is a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to what is to come, it is important to remember to ring in 2024 safely.
New Year’s celebrations are full of ball drops, fireworks, and gatherings. Keeping in mind that the celebrations do come to an end, making sure you have a safe way home at the end of the night is critical for safety.
“We encourage responsible celebration, that starts with making sure you have a designated driver prior to even going out that night,” said Michigan State Lt. Mark Giannunzio.
Police say calling a cab, or just walking are suitable alternatives to driving while intoxicated. According to the Marquette police department, grants allow them to deploy additional officers to keep an eye out for intoxicated drivers on New Years Eve.
“It won’t just be Marquette City officers, there are going to be agencies all over our county that will have extra officers on the road, on the lookout for people who have been drinking too much and driving,” remarked Detective Nate Dawson of the Marquette City Police.
Fireworks are another popular way to celebrate the beginning of a new year. In the city of Marquette fireworks can only be set off on private property by sober individuals.
“We can not have people shooting things off into the streets, there are also hours where we do not want to be going over, and the holidays are the only time you can do it,” added Dawson.
Thousands are expected to travel to downtown Marquette this weekend to watch the ball drop on top of the Masonic Building. With large crowds it can be easy to become separated from your group, particularly for small children.
“If your child is missing, that is a definite use of 911, we want to make sure kids are safe especially in the colder weather,” commented Giannunzio.
Law Enforcement officers say ringing in the New Year can be a fun and memorable experience as long as proper planning and precautions are taken.
