ESCANABA — The free New Year’s Eve Liferides program will mark 40 years of helping those who are ringing in the new year make it home safely. Rides will be available from 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31 until 4 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 1. with the goal of preventing alcohol-related traffic accidents and fatalities. Since the program began in 1984, there have been no fatalities from alcohol-related traffic accidents in Delta County on New Year’s Eve — a trend organizers hope will continue.

Those who need a ride this New Year’s Eve can call the Delta Area Transit Authority (DATA) bus at 906-786-1186, ext. 1, or JN Taxi at 906-786-1122. All transportation charges will be covered by the Liferides program. DATA encourages people to call the day prior to preschedule a ride if possible.

Flyers also have been distributed to local bars and restaurants with information about the program for those who may need to call for a ride on New Year’s Eve but do not have the phone numbers for JN Taxi or DATA with them.