As New Year’s Eve celebrations approach, the Fort Madison Police Department is reminding residents and visitors to celebrate responsibly and make safe choices behind the wheel.
Police say New Year’s Eve is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for impaired driving. Alcohol and drugs can significantly reduce reaction time, judgment, and coordination, putting drivers, passengers, and others on the road at serious risk.
The department says driving under the influence is entirely preventable and urges people to plan ahead before celebrating. Officers encourage anyone who plans to drink to designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service or public transportation, or stay overnight at their celebration location. Police also stress the importance of never allowing a friend or family member to drive while impaired.
Fort Madison officers will be on patrol throughout New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, actively enforcing impaired driving laws to help keep roadways safe.
Police remind the public that impaired driving is illegal and remains a leading cause of serious injuries and fatalities. Anyone who sees a suspected impaired driver is urged to contact local authorities.
The Fort Madison Police Department’s message is simple: celebrate responsibly, plan ahead, and don’t drink and drive.