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(HOUSTON, TX) - The Harris County Sheriff's Office reminds you that if you're going to celebrate the Irish in you today, to do so responsibly.

March 17 has become a deadly day in the United States, with a dramatic spike in drunk-driving fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in the post-celebration hours of St. Patrick's Day, between midnight and 5:59 a.m. March 18, 2013, half of all crash fatalities involved drunk drivers.

So whether you’re buzzed or drunk on St. Patrick’s Day, it doesn’t matter. Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving, and you will go to jail.

"Folks, if you know you’re going to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with alcohol, then come up with a plan ahead of time for how you’ll get home," said Sheriff Adrian Garcia. "And just as importantly, don't let your friends drive drunk.”

Here are some other helpful tips:

Plan to drive sober or designate someone else to. Save the number of a taxi company in your phone so you always have a backup plan.

Once you know where you’ll celebrate, decide whether you’re drinking or driving. You can only choose one.

Before you take your first sip of green beer, leave your keys at home or give them to a friend. If you’re the designated driver, don’t drink.

Only drive sober or ride with a sober driver.