(Fort Myers, FL: December 7, 2011) - There will be many reasons to be merry this holiday season, and making sure that your loved ones drink responsibly is the best way to guarantee their safety. The month of December marks a National effort to prevent driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. The Fort Myers Police Department would like everyone to embrace the spirit of driving sober this season. Give your loved ones the gift of safety; drinking alcohol and driving doesn’t mix.
Unfortunately, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, millions of drivers on America’s highways continue to make a deadly decision by driving while intoxicated, which jeopardizes their safety and the safety of others. FMPD reminds citizens of its ongoing commitment to increase enforcement over the holidays to include roving patrols and DUI checkpoints targeting drunk drivers. Electronic message boards have been placed throughout the City reminding drivers that buzzed driving is drunk driving. During the holiday season, and year round, take steps to make sure that you and everyone you celebrate with avoids driving under the influence. Follow these tips from NHTSA to help you stay safe:
- Plan ahead. Always designate a non-drinking driver before any holiday party or celebration begins.
- Take the keys. Do not let a friend drive if they are impaired.
- Be a helpful host. If you’re hosting a party this holiday season, remind your guests to plan ahead and designate their sober driver, always offer alcohol-free beverages, and make sure all of your guests leave with a sober driver.
- If you see an impaired driver on the road call police.