Crime & Safety

Expect Extra Drunken Driving Patrols, Checkpoints During Holidays

Massachusetts State Police and 200 city and town police forces are mobilizing extra enforcement efforts through Jan. 1 thanks to a federal grant.

Written by Chris Helms

Massachusetts State Police and local cops will be using a federal grant to put out extra patrols and man checkpoints searching for drunken drivers.

"The holiday season provides increased opportunities for people to consume alcohol at parties with friends, family and colleagues," State Police Colonel Timothy Alben said Monday in a press release. "While it is fine to celebrate, people have to do so responsibly. When they don’t, that’s where we come in."

The grant funding the extra police presence comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. You might've seen their recent ad campaign, in which camouflaged police see drunks before the drunks see them. In addition to putting more Staties on patrol, the grant helps 200 town and city police forces add manpower. The heightened mobilization runs through Jan. 1.

Here are some tips from State Police:

  • Plan a safe way home before festivities begin. 
  • Designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home.
  • Call a taxi, friend or family member for a ride or use public transportation if you have been drinking.
  • Don't hesitate to call police if you see an impaired driver.
  • If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get home.


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