Law Enforcement to Target DUI Drivers

The Redlands Police Department will conduct targeted DUI saturation patrols between 10 p.m. Sunday and 3 a.m. Monday, and from 6 p.m. Monday to 2 a.m. Tuesday.

The Avoid the 25 San Bernardino County DUI Task Force, which is made up of 25 agencies in the area, will also deploy DUI saturation patrols targeting impaired drivers throughout the weekend.

The Redlands Police Department is an active member of the DUI Task Force.

“We continue to see far too many people hurt or killed as a result of impaired driving,” said Christopher J. Murphy, Director of the California Office of Traffic Safety. “Please do your part to stop this senseless crime.”

Officials ask the public’s help in keeping drunk drivers off the road by reporting them to 9-1-1.

Law-enforcement officials offer the following safety tips If you are hosting a party:

• You can be held liable and prosecuted if one of your guests ends up in DUI related crash.
• Hosts are encouraged to make sure guests designate a sober driver in advance, or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers.
• Serve lots of food and include lots of non-alcoholic beverages at the party.
• Stop serving alcohol before the party ends and begin serving coffee and dessert.
• Keep the numbers for taxis handy, and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving while impaired.

If you are attending a party or at a sports bar or restaurant:

• Designate a sober driver before the party begins and leave your car keys at home.
• Avoid drinking too much alcohol too fast. Pace yourself — eat enough food, take breaks and alternate with non-alcoholic drinks.
• If you don’t have a designated driver, ask sober friends for a ride home, call a cab, friend, or family member to come and get you, or just stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.
• Never let a friend get behind the wheel of their vehicle if you think they are about to drive while under the influence
• Buckle up. It’s still your best defense against other impaired drivers.