If you want to avoid the long arm of the law this Fourth of July, it’s simple: Don’t drink and drive. 

Whether you’re hosting a party or attending one this Independence Day, here are some tips to follow to help keep yourself and your friends safe (and out of legal trouble) on the road.

Designating a sober driver and making sure to prevent friends from taking the wheel if they are impaired are just two simple steps to help avoid a fatal crash or DUI. Other important tips include:

If you are hosting a July 4th party:

• Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you served ends up in an impaired driving crash.
• Make sure all of your guests designate sober drivers in advance, or carpool with other sober drivers.
• Serve plenty of food and include non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
• Keep the numbers for local cab companies nearby, and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving impaired.

If you are attending a July 4th party:

• Designate your sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car keys.
• If you don’t have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home, call a cab, sober friend or family member to pick you up, or just stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.
• Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive while impaired.
• Always buckle up — it’s still your best defense against an impaired driver.