Football fans being warned not to drink and drive

State officials want to remind you not to drink and drive during the Big Game weekend.

Monday the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission launched the "Fans Don't Let Fans Drive Drunk" campaign.

Lt. Col. John LeBlanc, executive director of the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission said, "We want everyone to enjoy the game and the events surrounding it, but do not get behind the wheel if you've been drinking."

So, whether you are heading down to New Orleans for the Big Game or if you're hosting a Big Game party at your home the LHSC and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration want you to keep a few things in mind:

If you are participating in Super Bowl activities in New Orleans:

• Keep in mind that there will be thousands of pedestrians around the Superdome and throughout downtown New Orleans and the French Quarter. Drivers need to watch out for pedestrians, and pedestrians need to watch out for vehicles.
• Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination. Traffic will be especially heavy along routes to and from the Superdome.

If you are watching the game at a party or other venue away from home:

• Avoid drinking too much alcohol too rapidly.  Pace yourself, eat enough food, take breaks and alternate with non-alcoholic drinks.
• Designate your sober driver before the party begins and leave your keys at home if you plan to drink.
• Always remember, Fans Don't Let Fans Drive Drunk.  Take the keys and never let friends leave your sight if you think they are about to drive while impaired.
• If you have been drinking, don't even think about getting behind the wheel. Ask a sober friend for a ride home; call a cab, friend or family member to come and get you; or stay where you are, and sleep it off until you are sober.

If you are hosting a Super Bowl party:

• Make sure all of your guests designate their sober drivers before kick-off or help arrange ride-sharing with others who are not drinking.
• Keep the phone numbers of local cab companies handy, and remove the keys from anyone who is thinking of driving while impaired.
• Serve lots of food and be sure to include non-alcoholic beverages such as soft drinks, juice and water.
• Quit serving alcohol at the end of the third quarter of the game and begin serving coffee or dessert.

In 2011, alcohol was a factor in 41 percent of all traffic deaths in Louisiana and 31 percent nationwide in 2010. Alcohol impairment among drivers involved in fatal crashes is higher on weekends and during evening hours.

The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission also wants you to remember to buckle up.  A fastened seat belt is one of the best defenses you have if involved in a crash.