FORT MYERS, Fla.- On Friday, August 19, 2011 the Fort Myers Police Department will join nearly 10,000 other law enforcement agencies nationwide in support of an intensive crackdown on impaired driving known as “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.” The enforcement includes the use of sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols, especially during high-risk nighttime hours. “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” runs August 19th through the Labor Day weekend, September 5th and is an effort to improve traffic safety through the following:

    Remove impaired drivers from the roadway.
    Reduce the likelihood impaired drivers will operate their vehicles on our roadways.

    Heighten awareness.
    Educate the public on the dangers of drunk driving.

This and other increased patrol operations are scheduled as part of the Fort Myers Police Department’s strategic plan and on-going efforts to make the streets safer by educating the public on traffic safety issues. Take steps to make sure that you and everyone you celebrate with avoids driving under the influence:

·         Plan ahead. Always designate a non-drinking driver before any holiday party or celebration begins.

·         Take the keys. Do not let a friend drive if they are impaired.

·         Be a helpful host. If you’re hosting a party, remind your guests to plan ahead and designate their sober driver, always offer alcohol-free beverages, and make sure all of your guests leave with a sober driver.

·         If you see an impaired driver on the road call police.