The latest local news, weather and high school sports in and around Columbia and Jefferson City

For many people, New Year's Eve is a time for celebration, reflection and excitement for another year ahead.

But in seconds, that fun can turn dangerous or even deadly.

Captain Doug Shoemaker of the Jefferson City Police Department said that traditionally, New Year's Eve is a big night for arrests for driving while intoxicated.

"I think there's certainly a greater chance of people not using the best judgement today because there are more parties. It's a significant event that's known for celebration around midnight," Shoemaker said.

In an effort to curb drinking and driving, Shoemaker says "we're watching the roadways for every different kind of violation, speeding, red light violation so on and so forth, in an effort to try to deter people from making the wrong choice in the first place."

Michael Olive, manager at Checker Cab in Jefferson City, said that as of this afternoon, they had already received around 100 calls. He attributed the increase in daytime calls to the snow.

The most important thing to remember to make sure you have a fun, safe, night is to make sure you have a safe ride home.

In Jefferson City, local bars have tickets for the Safe Driver Program. Each free ticket is good for up to $10 and can be used for a ride home from a bar or party. These tickets can only be used for rides home-- not to other parties or bars.