SHAWANO, WI- The Shawano Police Department (SPD), Shawano County Sheriff’s Department (SHSO), and Menominee County Sheriff’s Department (MESO) are intensifying efforts to remove impaired drivers from the roads this holiday season. From December 15 to New Year’s Day, these agencies will participate in the annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over holiday enforcement campaign, aligning with law enforcement agencies nationwide.
The primary objective of the campaign is to prevent impaired driving crashes and ensure a safe celebration for everyone. Last holiday season saw 470 crashes involving impaired drivers in Wisconsin.
Lt. Mike Musolff emphasized that the focus extends beyond stopping or arresting drivers, stating, “Our goal is to save lives. Someone is killed or injured in an impaired driving crash about every two hours in Wisconsin. We must put an end to these preventable tragedies so everyone can make it home for the holidays.”
Alcohol and drugs can significantly impact a driver’s focus and control behind the wheel. In Wisconsin last year, there were 6,230 alcohol-related crashes resulting in 155 fatalities, contributing to over a quarter of all traffic fatalities.
Wisconsin officers are equipped with special training to combat impaired driving, including:
- Nearly 7,000 police officers trained in Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement to detect and remove impaired drivers.
- Almost 400 highly trained Drug Recognition Experts, placing Wisconsin among the nation’s leaders.
- 29 multi-jurisdictional high-visibility OWI task forces operating across the state.
The community is encouraged to contribute to this effort by:
- Designating a sober driver or arranging a safe ride home when celebrating.
- Never allowing an impaired person to drive.
- Reporting suspected impaired drivers by calling 911 and providing detailed information on the driver, vehicle, and location.
- Utilizing programs in bars and restaurants that offer safe rides home.
- Prioritizing seatbelt use and avoiding distractions such as mobile phones while driving.
Musolff urged everyone to take part in preventing impaired driving, saying, “Help us keep you, your friends, and your family safe this holiday season. Talk with your loved ones about getting home safely and always drive sober.”
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