‘Have a plan to get home safe’: Safety tips, laws to remember ahead of NYE celebrations
Ain’t no laws when you’re drinking claws? Actually, there are.
A new year — that is also bringing a new decade — is a time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future, watch the ball drop in New York City and drink champagne. But, as the parties get rolling, there are local laws to remember to follow as you’re celebrating.
The most common piece of advice from law enforcement this time of the year is to drive sober. If you’re toasting into the new year with a beer — or more — officials encourage folks to keep their keys in their pockets or purses and call a sober friend for a ride, a taxi or a ride-sharing service, like Uber or Lyft.
Cpl. Thomas Vest with Myrtle Beach Police Department said additional officers will be out on the roads Tuesday night to discourage impaired driving and keep the roadways safe.
“Our advice for anyone going out tonight is to plan ahead and be patient,” Vest said. “Make sure you have a plan to get home safe if you are planning on celebrating with alcoholic beverages.”
Another big part of ringing in a new year is fireworks, which are prohibited within the City of Myrtle Beach and its beaches. Selling, possessing or using fireworks within the city results in a $205 fine. Shooting fireworks is also prohibited within the City of North Myrtle Beach, but folks may possess fireworks as long as they don’t discharge the fireworks within city limits.
Fireworks are legal in the unincorporated parts of Horry County before 11 p.m.
Discharging firearms, slingshots or air rifles is also illegal in Myrtle Beach.
If you are planning to use fireworks while celebrating, here are some safety tips when discharging them.
