Wednesday, August 28, 2013

ISP Plans for a Safe Labor Day Holiday with “All Hands on Deck” Operation and Enhanced DUI Patrols

MERIDIAN – As travelers hit the road this weekend with the end of summer in sight, the Idaho State Police want to make sure Idaho’s roads are as safe as possible. To kick off the Labor Day holiday weekend, Friday, August 30th, all available sworn ISP personnel, even those usually behind a desk, will be on the road for ISP’s second “All Hands on Deck” operation this summer. ISP will combine the operation with the national two-week long “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign that began on August 26th and continues through September 8th.

“‘All Hands on Deck’ is designed to increase patrols on the busiest travel days of the year to give our citizens added safety on the roads,” says Colonel Ralph Powell. “This summer has been deadly on Idaho’s highways. Since Memorial Day weekend, ISP has investigated 46 fatal crashes on Idaho’s highways. ISP is committed to preventing crashes, injuries and deaths. Frequently, it is the sighting of a patrol car that makes people not only slow down, but obey other traffic laws as well. Therefore, all commissioned officers scheduled to work on Friday will be out patrolling Idaho’s roadways.”

The public is encouraged to be a part of the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign by dialing the Idaho State Police at *ISP (*477) from your mobile phone or simply 9-1-1 to report suspected drunk drivers.

ISP reminds the traveling public of the following driving safety tips:

  • Drive sober
  • Buckle up every trip, every time. Be sure to use child safety seats correctly
  • Be patient with other drivers and give yourself extra time to travel
  • Stay alert and get enough sleep before traveling
  • Avoid distractions, including cell phones
  • Move over when passing emergency vehicles

ISP would also like to remind those traveling in certain highly traveled areas of the state to be extra patient with the traffic and other motorists. You will probably want to plan an extra hour or two into your trip to lessen your stress. Remember, there are several fires still burning throughout the state that can affect travel, as well as construction in other areas and just more people on mountain roads. Call the Idaho Road Report at 5-1-1 to find out if there are restrictions on your planned travel route.