It's Cinco de Mayo! Party On Loma Linda ... Safely

It’s Cinco de Mayo. Time to gather with friends and co-workers for chips, salsa and celebrate California’s rich cultural diversity. That celebration often includes a few beers and margaritas.

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s/Loma Linda Police warns residents at best drinking and driving can cost you your freedom. At worst it can cost you your or someone else’s life.

San Bernardino County Avoid the 25 DUI Task Force will deploy overtime patrols onto city streets while the CHP will saturate the freeways and unincorporated communities, according to a news release.

Those who show signs of being under the influence will be stopped and tested. Everyone, including hosts, local bars and restaurants, must be sure to promote designated sober drivers in advance, before the ‘Fiesta’ begins, according to the news release

Officials offer some plan ahead tips:

• Arrange rides home for your friends, family, co-workers and yourself before the drinking begins
• Hosts can identify and provide free non-alcoholic drinks or other promotional items to the Designated Driver
• Party hosts and servers must limit drinks to your guests or patrons. Don’t serve more than one or two over several hours.
• Cut back on the amount of drinks you plan to bring to the party. Provide plenty of food.
• It you see dangerous driving, Report Drunk Drivers, call 9-1-1

Avoid the 25 DUI Task Force funding is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.