Along with well wishes, authorities are warning against drunk driving Friday night as New Year's celebrations get underway.
The Suffolk County Police Department is adding DWI patrols. And big time.
Deputy chief John Meehan said that Friday night's stepped-up enforcement includes augmented highway patrols, teams dedicated directly to holiday DWI problems which have been operating since Thanksgiving, extra officers from each precinct, plus aviation and plainclothes officers.
Places like downtown Huntington with its many bars, could draw extra police eyes. "We're aware of the places where people drink and those locations by their very nature are the focus of our attention." But not exclusively. "We'll be all over because just though they're drinking in one place, the driving will occur all Long Island."
"A lot of people need to be reminded and we find public service messages are effective but there still remains a core group of people who, if they don't get the message, we have to rely heavily on enforcement," he said.
"We've made great strides through enforcement and socially and education."
As to the holiday, Meehan says, "I can certainly understand why people want to celebrate but don't get the connection between doing that and doing foolish, reckless things."
If you're partying in Huntington Friday or Saturday and need to get back to Smithtown but have had too much too drink--or run out of money--Lindy's Taxi will take you home for free.
Joe Fierro of Lindy's said the service extends through Saturday and serves communities where it has offices, including Amityville, Babylon, Brentwood, Coram, East Hampton, Mount Sinai, Patchogue and Smithtown. Partygoers can call Lindy's at 631-265-2727 for help.
The MTA is running extra eastbound trains Friday afternoon for those who want to get back home early, as well as extra trains in both directions Friday night and early Saturday morning. It is warning against open alcohol use on trains and platforms.
"In the interest of safety, alcohol will not be allowed on LIRR trains, platforms or at stations from 12 Noon on December 31, 2010 to 12 Noon on January 1, 2011. MTA Police will enforce this restriction," the MTA said.
