Local law enforcement joins Target Zero campaign

Hopefully 2013 will be different than the last five holiday seasons. From 2008-2012, an average of 49 people died in traffic crashes in Washington between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. 



DUI is still the leading cause of traffic death, however it doesn’t have to be that way and that is why between Nov. 27 and Jan. 1, 2014, extra officers will be looking for drivers under the influence on Washington roadways. 





To reach zero traffic deaths takes effort from everyone and locals are asked to join law enforcement in working toward zero deaths. Visit http://www.WAdrivetozero.com to review important safety tips, such as: 



Call 911 if you see a suspected DUI driver on the roads.

If you drink, use marijuana, or take other drugs, don’t drive. Make plans beforehand for how you’ll get around.

If you are hosting a party, make sure your guests get home safely! Plan to have sober designated drivers available. Buy a few extra air mattresses so guests can stay the night. If it’s an office party, limit alcohol, provide shuttle service or book hotel rooms. Remember, as a party host, you are liable for the actions of the people who leave your party intoxicated.

Talk with your children about alcohol, marijuana and other drugs. Help them understand the ways alcohol and marijuana use can harm their bodies, their brains, and their future. Let them know that they can call you instead of ever getting into a car with a driver who has been drinking, using marijuana or taking drugs.

Give the best gift of all at the Holiday Season with the Designated Driver Gift Card found at http://wadrivetozero.com/gift-cards/.

Addiction is a complex issue. If you or someone you know is dealing with alcohol, marijuana or drug abuse, call the Washington Recovery Help Line at 1-866-789-1511. http://warecoveryhelpline.org/

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The Ephrata, Mattawa, Moses Lake, Othello, Quincy, Ritzville, Royal City, Soap Lake and Warden Police Departments, the Adams, Grant and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Offices and the Washington State Patrol are working towards zero traffic deaths by participating in this Holiday Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign. 



The Central Basin Traffic Safety Task Force organizes and supports this enforcement effort.



These and all extra patrols are part of Target Zero – striving to end traffic deaths and serious injuries in Washington by 2030. For more information, visit http://www.targetzero.com.

Additional information on the Washington Traffic Safety Commission can be found on the website, http://www.wtsc.wa.gov.