The season of summer officially begins June 21 and lasts through Thursday September 22. However, Memorial Day marked the unofficial start of summer. It marks the first in a series of long holiday weekends, followed by July 4 and Labor Day.

These long summer weekends are a great time to attend barbecues, cook outs and other gatherings with friends and family before the season changes again.

Please keep the following tips in mind for preventing drunk driving this summer. The last thing you want is to be stuck behind bars reflecting on a preventable mistake over the course of a long weekend.

Plan a Sober Ride

It has never been easier to get home without driving under the influence of alcohol. Call an Uber, schedule a lift, hail a cab, etc. Just don’t get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol.

Start a Designated Driving Rotation

If you frequently hang out with the same group of friends or family, consider starting a designated driver rotation. That way you’ll always know who is responsible for driving folks home safely after a night out or a day in.

Know Your Limits and Drink Plenty of Water

It is important to know your personal limits. If you know you get tipsy after two drinks, make sure you have handed your keys over before you reach that point. Drinking a glass of water between alcoholic beverages can also help you keep your BAC lower and stay in control of your decision making as you enjoy the long weekend.

Don’t Incriminate Yourself

In the event you are pulled over, keep quiet and save your talking for an experienced DUI defense attorney.