Upped Police Presence For St. Patrick's Day In Seal Beach Starting Friday

SEAL BEACH, CA — Seal Beach police officers reminded residents not to push their luck and drive under the influence this St. Patrick's Day, as the department announced an increased police presence on the streets this holiday weekend.

The increased patrol will start at 10 a.m. Friday and end on Saturday at 2 a.m.

Seal Beach officers will be "looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs," the department said in a statement.

"Leave your keys at home and plan ahead before you celebrate St. Patrick's Day," Chief Michael Henderson said in a statement. "Designate a sober driver, schedule a ride share or make other planes to get home safely if you plan to drink."

St. Patrick's Day is one of the deadliest times of the year for the country's roads, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In 2020, more than 11,000 people in the country died in drunk-driving crashes.

The department also reminded residents that alcohol is not the only substance that can cause impairment. Marijuana, prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs can also impair.