Full Notification

​​Newark​, California – As football fans gear up for the excitement of the big game, ​the Newark Police Department ​reminds everyone that the best game plan includes getting home safely. Whether you're hosting a party, attending a gathering or enjoying the game at your favorite spot, planning ahead for a sober ride will keep you and everyone on the road safe. 
 
“Super Bowl celebrations are a time for fun and community, but safety should always come first,” said ​Sergeant K. Fredstrom​. “If you plan to drink, make sure you have a reliable way to get home, whether that’s a designated sober driver, rideshare, taxi or public transportation.” 
 
​​During Super Bowl LX weekend (February 7 and 8)​, the ​Newark Police Department ​will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. 
 
Plan for a Safe Celebration 
Before heading out for Super Bowl 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 Ridesharing Services, Taxis or Public Transportation: Rideshare apps and transit options are safe alternatives to driving if you've been drinking. 
• Host Responsibly: If you’re hosting, offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverage options and make sure your guests have safe, sober rides home. 
• Look Out for Others: Don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Take their keys and help arrange a safe ride. 
• Never Drive Impaired or Distracted: It’s not worth the risk – your life and others’ lives depend on it!  

 
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. If you see someone who appears to be driving while impaired, call 9-1-1. 
 
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.