Kankakee, IL – The City of Kankakee Police Department announced it will conduct special patrols this St. Patrick’s Day to crack down on impaired drivers and encourage people to wear their seat belts. Celebrated throughout the nation, St. Patrick’s Day is one of the deadliest holidays of the year due to the number of drunk drivers on the road. If you will be drinking or using another impairing substance, plan ahead for a sober ride home.

“We urge our community residents and visitors to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day responsibly,” said Sergeant Sam Miller. “We’ll be out in force to keep impaired drivers off the roads and help ensure that everyone makes it home safely.”

Before the green beer starts flowing, remember to designate a sober driver. If you do not have a designated driver, call a cab, have a sober friend or family member pick you up, or stay where you are and sleep it off. Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive impaired and always buckle up – it’s your best defense in a crash.

Pedestrians are at risk, too. If you are walking, keep an eye out for cars. If you are a designated driver, be alert for impaired walkers who may not obey street signs and pedestrian signals.

“Public safety is our upmost priority and it is important to be responsible. We also ask for your corporation with law enforcement as they work to keep our communities safe,” said Mayor Wells-Armstrong.

The Illinois “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Click It or Ticket” campaigns are administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation with federal highway safety funds managed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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The City of Kankakee is dedicated to protecting, building and nurturing the community while enhancing lives. We are a historic, vibrant, and active riverfront community. We continue to transform into an extraordinary place to dream, grow, and thrive. Embracing our diversity, we strive to be progressive, inclusive, and innovative. For more information on the City of Kankakee, please visit the website at www.citykankakee-il.gov.

 

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