Full Notification

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                             March 10, 2025

CONTACT: Sergeant Peter Cang, 650-780-7159 pcang@redwoodcity.org

Don’t Rely on Luck: Be Smart, Choose a Sober Way to Go This St. Patrick’s Day

Redwood City, California – St. Patrick’s Day is a time to celebrate with friends, family and good cheer. However, as the festivities often include alcohol, the Redwood City Police Department is urging everyone to prioritize safety and avoid driving under the influence. Don’t rely on luck—plan ahead and make sure you have a sober way to get home.

In 2022 alone, there were 74 drunk-driving fatalities during the St. Patrick’s Day holiday, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). More than 13,500 preventable deaths throughout 2022 involved drunk driving, representing 32% of all traffic fatalities in the United States that year.

Additional officers will be on patrol March 17 throughout the day looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

 “Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day responsibly is about keeping yourself and others safe,” said Chief of Police Kristina Bell.  “Let’s work together to make this holiday memorable for all the right reasons.  Ensure you plan ahead and choose a safe way to get home.”

Plan for a Safe Celebration

Before heading out for St. Patrick’s Day festivities, follow these tips to stay safe:

· Designate a Sober Driver: Choose someone ahead of time who will stay alcohol-free and make sure everyone gets home safely.

· Use Ride-Sharing Services or Public Transportation: Apps and transit options are great alternatives to driving if you've been drinking.

· Look Out for Others: Don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Take their keys and help arrange a safe, sober ride.

· Stay Alert: Watch for impaired drivers on the road and report them to local law enforcement by calling 911.

The Redwood City Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products and other drugs may also cause impairment. If you plan on drinking or taking medications with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive. 

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.