
It’s the Fourth of July! Fireworks are lighting up the sky, barbecues are sizzling, and the spirit of independence is in the air. But amid the celebration, the Pasadena Police Department has a message: Don’t let the ‘I’ in your Independence Day be ‘Intoxicated’.
“Choosing a sober driver isn’t just about obeying the law,” says Lieutenant Anthony Russo. “It’s about cherishing life. If you’re raising a glass to freedom today, make sure you’ve got a plan for a safe ride home. Think about the people who matter to you before you get behind the wheel.”
Last year, the Fourth of July saw a tragic tally of 487 lives lost in crashes across the country, with a sobering 40% involving alcohol. In our own Golden State, 68 people didn’t live to see July 5th. And every five minutes, a driver was arrested for DUI.
Russo said to remember, it’s not just booze that can buzz you. Prescription meds, over-the-counter drugs, and marijuana can also impair your driving.
If you’re hosting a party, be a patriot: offer non-alcoholic options for designated drivers and keep an eye on your guests. If someone’s had one too many, offer them a couch for the night or help them arrange a sober ride home.
See a driver who’s had too much fun? Be a hero and dial 9-1-1, Russo said.
This initiative is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.