DeKalb County Sheriff to ramp patrol, urge sober driving for Super Bowl weekend

The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office on Friday announced it will conduct special patrols throughout Super Bowl weekend to crack down on impaired drivers and encourage people to wear their seat belts.

If your Super Bowl plans involve alcohol or marijuana, make the right play and pass your keys to a sober driver.

“At parties throughout the country, friends will gather to cheer on their favorite team and raise a glass or two,” said Lt. Dave Aranda. “We urge our residents and visitors to enjoy Super Bowl parties responsibly and remind them that we’ll be out in force to help ensure everyone makes it home safely.”

The campaign will run Friday, Feb. 11 through Monday, Feb. 14

Before kickoff, drivers are urged to remember to designate a sober driver. If they don’t have a designated driver, they’re encouraged to call a cab, use a ride-sharing service, ask a sober friend or family member to pick them up, or stay where they are and sleep it off.

Never let a friend leave one’s sight if they think the friend is about to drive impaired, police urged. Motorists are asked to always buckle up – it’s the best defense in a crash.

Pedestrians are at risk, too. When walking, keep an eye out for cars, police warn. If a designated driver, be alert for impaired walkers who may not obey street signs and pedestrian signals.

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