JOHN CAMEROTA
As you celebrate the holiday season enjoying traditions, food, family and fun, be reminded that Westfield Police Officers will be out in force from December 13, 2013 to January 1, 2014 to protect the Commonwealth’s citizens by arresting anyone caught behind the wheel operating under the influence. Westfield Police will join with other law enforcement agencies across the Commonwealth to run extra patrols through the New Year as part of the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over mobilization, funded by a federal grant administered through the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Highway Safety Division.
The message is simple: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. Drinking alcohol and driving do not mix. Unfortunately, the excitement and celebrations of the holiday season can lead to terrible decisions, and serious legal consequences. Data shows that the holiday season is a particularly deadly time due to the increased number of impaired drivers on the roads. In 2011 in Massachusetts 114 people were killed in crashed that involved drivers with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or higher.
There is no holiday cheer behind bars in a jail cell. Don’t let your 2013 holiday season end in arrest or worse, death or injury. Remember, whether you’ve had way too many or one too many, it’s not worth the risk.
The December holiday season is the “most wonderful time of the year,” and we are going to keep our roads safe. The Westfield Police will show zero tolerance for those driving under the influence on the road. If you choose to drive drunk, we will see you, we will stop you, and you will be arrested.
Please follow these recommended safety tips:
• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home
• If you are impaired, use a taxi, or call a sober friend or family member
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, call the Westfield Police
• If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get home safely.
Best wishes for a safe and very special holiday season.
John A. Camerota
Chief of Police
