MAKING SAFETY PRIORITY.

Byline: Daily News

PALMDALE - Parties where alcohol is served and people who drive after drinking can make the holidays deadly, Palmdale public-safety officials point out. They offer these staying-safe tips:

--If you plan to drink alcoholic beverages, do not drive.

--Choose a sober designated driver.

--Take mass transit or a taxicab.

--Take friends' car keys if they have been drinking.

--Spend the night where the activity is being held if alcohol has been consumed.

--Always serve food at parties where alcohol is being served.

--Offer nonalcoholic beverages at parties.

--Stop serving alcohol three hours before the party breaks up.

--Never ride in a car with someone who is intoxicated.

--Always wear a seat belt.

--Steer clear of aggressive drivers and avoid becoming one by staying cool.

--Stay away from driver distractions, such as using a cell phone, putting on makeup or reading anything, including a map, without pulling off the road to do it.

--Focus on driving and on watching out for the driver who is not focused.

--Be sure tires have plenty of air and tread.

--Be sure wiper blades and defroster are in good condition.

--Reduce driving speed in bad weather.

--Drive with headlights on.

--Never tailgate. Drive with a margin of safety. Leave at least two car lengths ahead of your car, more at higher speeds.

--Realize that you may feel sleepy after excessive eating.

--Get plenty of rest.

--Holidays are stressful. Take time to relax.

For more safe-driving tips, call the city Public Safety Office at [phone].