NEWS RELEASE
City of Takoma Park Police Department
● 7500 Maple Avenue ● Takoma Park, Md 20912
For more information contact:
Public Information Officer (PIO)
Catherine Plevy, 301/891.7142 or 240/338.2901
December 7, 2009 (5:05 p.m.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December is among one of the deadliest times of the year for drunk driving; it is filled with celebrations at the office, with friends, and family. It is a time when we as law enforcement welcome all the help we can get to raise awareness and prevent the tragic loss that comes with having a few innocent drinks and then getting behind the wheel. Please join law enforcement officials in the State of Maryland by supporting the initiative. We encourage Maryland drivers to report suspected drunk drivers by calling 911 or, in Takoma Park, Maryland, calling 301-270-1100. The State Highway Administration has already posted the message on variable message signs across the state. Local and county governments have posted the message on their web sites and local businesses are using their marquees to post the message "Report Drunk Drivers. Call 911."
With the approach of the holiday season, we wish we could offer rosy predictions in terms of drunk driving related crashes, fatalities, and associated injuries, but the statistics paint a much different picture. December consistently ranks as one of the deadliest months in Maryland for drunk-driving related fatalities. As part of an on-going campaign, which is aimed at promoting increased enforcement and consequences, we offer an additional strategy to help raise awareness and promote personal responsibility this holiday season. This is the State of Maryland’s third year in asking Maryland drivers to report drunk drivers during the month of December.
Our overall objective is to reduce the needless deaths and injuries associated with drunk driving during the holidays - a time when families come together to celebrate. Let’s empower our communities to stop the tragic loss of life because someone makes the mistake of driving after celebrating beyond the limit.
Anything you can do to support this initiative would be greatly appreciated and may help save a life this holiday season!
