Drunk Driving To Be Heavily Enforced For St. Paddy's: Oswego Police

OSWEGO, IL — Oswego police will be on the lookout for alcohol- and cannabis-impaired drivers over the St. Patrick's Day holiday, officials announced Monday.

This year, St. Patrick's Day falls on Sunday, March 17. Officers will also be stepping up seat belt enforcement, particularly at night when usage is typically the lowest. Speeding, distracted driving and all traffic laws will be strictly enforced, police said.

Oswego police are teaming up with Illinois State Police and the Illinois Department of Transportation for the enforcement campaign, paid for by federal traffic safety funds administered by IDOT.

Ahead of the holiday, police provided tips for those celebrating:

• If you do not have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home, call a cab or family member to pick you up, or stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.
• Buckle up. It's your best defense in the event of a crash.
• Remember, pedestrians are at risk, too. If you are walking, keep an eye out for cars. If you’re driving, remain alert for impaired walkers who may not obey street signs.