South San Francisco, CA July 3, 2023 SSFPD Press Release
Be Safe. Be Smart. Plan Ahead and Do Your Part: Celebrate Fourth of July Weekend Responsibly
The South San Francisco Police Department reminds drivers to do their part to keep everyone safe on the road this Fourth of July by planning ahead and celebrate the holiday responsibly.
On Tuesday, July 4, the South San Francisco Police Department will have multiple additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
In 2021, more than 500 people were killed in crashes throughout the country during the Fourth of July weekend. Of those deadly crashes, 39% involved alcohol. In California, 44 people were killed in crashes during last year’s Independence Day weekend. In addition, California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers made nearly 1,000 arrests for driving under the influence throughout the 3 ¼ day holiday enforcement period.
“If you plan on drinking this weekend, we want you to be safe and be smart by making a plan to go safely with a sober ride home,” Lieutenant Murphy said. “Think of your loved ones, friends, and family before thinking about driving after you’ve had a few drinks.”
While some festivities may include alcohol, driving under the influence also includes impairment from prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and marijuana. Do your research and be informed about how certain drugs may affect your driving ability.
If you are hosting friends and family for barbecues and watching fireworks shows, offer nonalcoholic drinks for designated sober drivers and monitor who is drinking. If you see people leaving who have been drinking, offer to have them stay the night or make arrangements for them to take a sober ride home.
If you see someone who appears impaired or driving recklessly, call 9-1-1.