Gurnee, IL – Beginning March 11 and running through March 20, 2011 the Gurnee Police Department will be stepping up impaired driver enforcement activities throughout the village. This campaign will coincide with the St. Patrick’s Day holiday, the launch of the Spring Break season, and be a prelude to “Alcohol Awareness Month” which is April of each year. Officers will also be focusing on safety restraint enforcement.

Funded by a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, these enforcement actions are being conducted in order to remove drunk and drugged drivers from the roadways.

The Gurnee Police Department recommends designating a sober driver and not letting friends and family drive impaired as just two of several simple steps to avoid a tragic crash or an arrest for impaired driving. Other important tips include:
 

• Plan ahead. Designate a sober driver before going out and give that person your keys.
• If you are impaired, call a taxi, use mass transit or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.
• Promptly report impaired drivers you see on the roadways to law enforcement.
• Wear your safety belt. It is your best defense against an impaired driver.

“Impaired driving is simply not worth risking your life or your freedom. It is a serious offense. Violators will be spending their money on bail, court, lawyers, a $500.00 administrative penalty, and associated towing fees. That is not a great way to celebrate a holiday.” Gurnee Police Chief Robert D. Jones

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