Watertown Police Increasing Patrols Looking for Drunken Drivers

The Watertown Police Department will be out in force during the holidays patrolling for people driving under the influence.

The increased enforcement will be from Dec. 13 to Jan. 1 as part of the Drive 
Sober or Get Pulled Over mobilization. The program is funded by a federal grant administered through the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Highway Safety Division, according to an announcement from the Watertown Police.

“You’ll see us making lots of stops during this highly visible enforcement period and if we suspect anyone is driving while intoxicated, officers will show zero tolerance for impaired driving,” said Watertown Police Sgt. David Sampson. “If you plan to consume alcohol, you should also plan not to get behind the wheel of a vehicle.”

The holiday season is a particularly deadly time due to the increased number of impaired drivers on the roads. In 2011, 114 people in Massachusetts were killed in crashes that involved drivers with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or higher, according to the announcement. 

Here are some tips for a safe holiday season:

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home
• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation
• If you happen to see an impaired driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact law enforcement
• And remember, Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over. If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get home safely