By Stacey Hanks–
“Drive sober or get pulled over.” It’s not just another catchy slogan, but literally the zero tolerance attitude that has been adopted by the Citrus Heights Police Department towards driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol this Labor Day Weekend.
Considered by many as the last hurrah of summer, the extended weekend is often celebrated with picnics, family BBQ’s and other gatherings that sometimes include becoming intoxicated. Sadly, police say it is also one of the deadliest times of the year for alcohol-related traffic deaths.
According to a CHPD news release, officers will be stepping up enforcement of traffic violations and deploying “DUI Saturation Patrols” over the Labor Day Weekend. The effort is part of an 18-day national enforcement campaign to educate drivers about the danger of driving while intoxicated, which began Aug. 17 and will culminate Sept. 3, Labor Day.
“This isn’t about ticketing,” said Citrus Heights Police Chief Ron Lawrence in the news release. “This is a campaign to get the message out that driving impaired is illegal and takes lives.”
The campaign also aims to educate drivers that DUI doesn’t only involve alcohol, but also includes marijuana and other drugs, as well as prescription medications. “If you take prescription drugs, you may be impaired enough to get a DUI,” police warn.
To avoid putting others at risk by getting on the road while “buzzed” or intoxicated, police recommend using public transportation or ride-sharing options, such as Uber and Lyft, or designating a sober driver. The department also recommends taking the keys away from friends or family members believed to be under the influence and making alternate arrangements to get them home.
“There are so many options out there to get home safely,” police said in the news release. “There is no excuse for getting behind the wheel when you are impaired.”
