Local, state-wide and national football finals are fast approaching. It’s an exciting time of year.  A time when football followers from around the state get together with friends and family and enjoy the spectacle that is footy. It should be a safe and memorable experience for all involved.

Let’s not make it memorable for the wrong reasons.

Unfortunately, there are behaviours that have the potential to ruin those experiences for those involved. The wrong decisions at football grounds or driving to and from football events have consequences ranging from a significant fine to the ruining of a life.

The adherence to a few simple rules can ensure these occasions are safe and enjoyable for all involved.

If you are at a footy ground and planning on drinking:

• Make sure you stay in a licensed (wet) area whilst consuming alcohol;
• Ensure you don’t take any alcohol outside that licensed area or bring any alcohol into the football ground;
• Do not consume, be in possession of alcohol if you are under 18.
• Know your limits, make sure you eat some food and ensure you don’t drink to the extent that your ability to make sensible, informed decisions is impaired.
• Look after your mates – If they’ve had too much to drink, be a good enough friend to make sure they don’t drink anymore and ensure they get home safely.

In an effort to ensure the safety of all those at the ground police will be patrolling these areas and ensuring members of the public comply with these laws.  Penalties for breaching these can range from a significant ‘on the spot’ fine through to court appearances.

Police will also be conducting RBT’s on the roads in the areas of football finals.  Don’t become one of the statistics.

If you are planning on having a drink, make sure you give some thought to how you are going to get to and from these events.  Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can sort it out we the time comes.  Making these decisions when affected by alcohol is a sure way to making a bad one. Appoint a mate or family member DES for the day/evening, or ensure you have enough money for a taxi or bus home.

There is never a good enough reason to drink drive.

Tasmania Police want everyone to enjoy their football that way it was meant to be enjoyed; safely and in the company of good friends and family.  Don’t let bad decisions ruin the day for you and those around you.