Calumet City – St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner and many will be celebrating with
parades and parties. The Calumet City Police Department is teaming up with the Illinois State
Police and the Illinois Department of Transportation for a stepped-up traffic safety campaign to
help keep our streets safe.
St. Patrick’s Day can be a dangerous one on America’s roads due to increased alcohol
consumption and drunk driving. There were 272 lives lost in drunk-driving crashes over the St.
Patrick’s Day holiday between 2017 and 2021.
In addition to looking for impaired drivers, the Calumet City Police Department will be stepping
up seat belt enforcement, particularly at night when seat belt usage rates are lowest. Speeding,
distracted driving and all traffic laws will be strictly enforced.
Whether you’re attending a party, hosting friends or going out to a bar, keep safety at the
forefront of your day and night. Make sure your designated driver is sober and remember that
walking impaired can also be dangerous. Designated drivers: Be alert for impaired walkers who
may not obey street signs.
Other important tips:
- Drunk or high, it doesn’t matter. It is never okay to drive impaired. Designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.
- If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact law enforcement.
- Have a friend who is about to drive impaired? Take the keys away and plan to get your friend home safely.
- Always buckle up!
