Branford Police Want Everyone To Be Safe This Holiday

BRANFORD, CT — Branford police just really want everyone to be safe.

"As we head into a holiday weekend, you may see our patrol vehicles equipped with a red ribbon to raise awareness and remind everyone to celebrate the holidays safely.

BPD stands with @maddconnecticut in their mission to end drunk driving, help fight drugged driving, support victims of these violent crimes and prevent underage drinking.

Here are some stats according to NHTSA data from Thanksgiving:
• From 2016-2020, 821 people died in alcohol-impaired crashes during the entire Thanksgiving holiday period (6 p.m. the Wednesday before Thanksgiving through 5:59 a.m. the Monday after Thanksgiving).
• During the 2020 Thanksgiving holiday period, more than four times as many drivers involved in fatal crashes were alcohol-impaired during nighttime hours than during the day.
• Thanksgiving Eve through 5:59 a.m. Thanksgiving Day is typically a dangerous time on the road. NHTSA has called it “Blackout Wednesday.” From 2016 to 2020, 138 drivers involved in fatal crashes on Thanksgiving Eve were alcohol-impaired.
• From 2016 to 2020, young drivers ages 21-24 represented the largest percentage (44%) of alcohol-impaired drivers involved in fatal crashes on Thanksgiving Eve.

Please make sure to designate a sober driver or ride service. Please enjoy and have a safe holiday weekend."