Madera Police urges residents to stay safe

Independence Day will be a three-day weekend this year, and the Madera Police Department reminds people eager to get together with friends and family to enjoy the holiday responsibly.

The Madera Police Department will have additional officers on patrol over the 4th of July weekend looking for drivers suspected of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

“Follow the speed limit, designate a sober driver and be thoughtful of others on the road also going to visit family and friends this weekend,” Officer Kellom said. “Help make the Independence Day holiday safer for everyone by being calm, courteous, and patient when traveling.”

According to AAA Southern California, travel volumes in the state are expected to be above pre-pandemic levels (2020) and 46.1 percent higher compared to last July 4, so patience will be key. Allow extra time to get to your destination.

According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), 36 people were killed in collisions during the Fourth of July Maximum Enforcement Period from July 3 to July 7 last year. CHP officers also arrested more than 1,300 drivers on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Madera Police Department reminds the public that alcohol is not the only thing that impairs your ability to drive safely. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and marijuana may also impair. Do your research and understand how a drug affects you before deciding whether you are okay to drive.

If you are celebrating or playing host, offer nonalcoholic drinks for designated sober drivers and monitor who is drinking. If you see people leaving who have been drinking, check on how they are getting home. If you see someone who appears impaired or driving recklessly, call 9-1-1.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.