Pasadena to Bring DUI Message to Bars, Streets on Friday

Pasadena police will be at local bars Friday educating people about the dangers of driving drunk and on the streets looking for offenders during a two-fold anti-DUI campaign, officials said.

Officers will head to Old Pasadena, where they will chat with bar patrons about how much they’ve had to drink, what their plans are to get home, and whether they think they’re safe to drive, Pasadena police Lt. Anthony Russo said. Often, patrons are offered the opportunity to try a breathalyzer machine to check their blood-alcohol levels.

The “Know Your Limit” program is designed around education and prevention, Russo said.

But at the same time, extra police patrols will also be out on the roadways looking for drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs, he said.

“The Pasadena Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving,” police said in a written statement.

“While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal,” the statement added.

Funding for the program is being provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.