Troop H Schedules State Police Holiday Period DUI Checkpoint

TOLLAND, CT — Beginning Friday, state police from the Troop C and Troop H barracks will be out in force for the holiday period.

Extra roving patrols will be implemented in the Troop C coverage area on Dec,. 21, 22, 29 and 31 between the hours of 7 p.m. that day and 3 a.m. the next day.

In the same time frame on Dec. 21, Troop H has scheduled a sobriety checkpoint for the Interstate-84 Exit 46 ramps.

State police said "careful planning with sensible driving will lead to safer road trips for those making a trek during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year. Tens of thousands of travelers are expected to drive on Connecticut highways during the upcoming holidays. We are asking motorists to follow all motor vehicle laws, as their behavior on the roads is essential to keeping potential hazards at a distance. Simply putting traffic laws into practice will prevent accidents and save lives."

Here are some driving tips:

• Drive the speed limit.
• Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
• Ensure that all passengers are wearing seatbelts.
• Signal when turning, changing lanes or taking an exit.
• Refrain from texting or using your phone.
• Never consume alcoholic beverages or drugs, including those legally prescribed, before you get behind the wheel.
• Immediately reduce speed to a reasonable level below the posted speed limit or move over one lane (whenever safe to do so) whenever law enforcement, fire trucks, ambulances or tow trucks are occupying a lane. Give them room to do their job efficiently and safely.
• Fill the gas tank prior to a journey.
• Check windshield wipers, windshield wiper fluid and tire pressure.
• Fully charge cell phones.
• Carry winter blankets, drinking water and snacks.
• Check traffic and weather conditions before leaving home.
• Keep a shovel and sand or salt in vehicles.

Photo Credit: Tim Jensen

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