Gov. Bev Perdue is reminding motorists to not drink and drive as they celebrate the start of a new year. State and local law enforcement officers will be out in force as part of the Holiday “Booze It & Lose It” campaign to remove impaired drivers off the road.

“As the holiday season comes to a close and we ring in a new year, I encourage all motorists to celebrate smart this weekend,” Perdue said. “If your celebration includes alcohol, have a designated driver or alternative transportation and start the new year off on the right foot.”

There were 46 alcohol-related crashes resulting in three fatalities last New Year’s Eve. The Governor’s Highway Safety Program’s Holiday “Booze It & Lose It” campaign began Dec. 4 and continues until Jan. 3.

The GHSP offers the following tips for planning and hosting a New Year’s celebration:

As you celebrate

• Plan ahead: Designate a sober driver or schedule alternate transportation.

• Be aware of your surroundings and do not venture out alone.

• Make sure your friends have safe transportation for the evening.

• Do not let friends drink and drive.

As you host a celebration

• Provide non-alcoholic beverages and designate someone at your party to stay sober.

• Have an alternate transportation plan in place for your guests, including taxi contact information or overnight accommodations.

• Remind your guests to buckle up when driving home.

• No matter what, do not let your guests drive home if they have been drinking.