Enforcement Campaign Coming To Oswego For St. Patrick's Day: Police

OSWEGO, IL — Oswego police are stepping up enforcement as part of a "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign ahead of St. Patrick's Day.

From March 13-23, the Oswego Police Department is joining Illinois State Police, the Illinois Department of Transportation and many local agencies to stop drivers impaired by alcohol, cannabis or other drugs. This year, the Irish holiday falls on Tuesday, March 17.

Officers will also increase seat belt enforcement, specifically at night when usage rates are lowest. Speeding, distracted driving and all traffic laws will be strictly enforced, officials said.

"With St. Patrick's Day falling on a Tuesday this year, we expect celebrations throughout the entire week, plus the weekends before and after," spokesperson Cathy Nevara wrote in a statement. "We urge everyone to celebrate responsibly. Plan ahead for a sober ride home before you leave the house, your safety and the safety of others depends on it."

Police provided the following tips ahead of the holiday:

• Designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride service to get home safely.
• Walking or biking while impaired can also be dangerous, so choose a sober friend to go with you.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, call 911 and report it.
• Have a friend who is about to drive impaired? Take the keys away and help them get a safe ride home.
• Always buckle up.

The campaign is paid for using federal highway safety funds administered by IDOT and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.