OREGON — With holiday festivities rapidly approaching, the Ogle County Sheriff’s Office announced that it will participate in a statewide impaired driving awareness campaign from Dec. 17 through Jan. 3.

“Driving impaired, whether under the influence of alcohol or drugs, can have catastrophic consequences and is illegal in every state” Sheriff Brian VanVickle said. “Not only do you put yourself at risk, but the lives of others as well.” 

If your celebration will involve alcohol or other impairing substances, please plan ahead for a sober ride home and remember to buckle up – it’s the best defense against an impaired driver. Keep these tips in mind to help ensure a safe and joyful holiday season: before you head to the party, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service to get home safely, if you see an impaired driver on the road, pull over and call The Ogle County Sheriff’s Office to report the vehicle (815-732-2136 or 911 if an emergency), have a friend who is about to drive impaired? Take their keys and help them get home safely and always buckle up.

The holiday enforcement effort is made possible by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.