STATE LAW OFFICIALS URGE PUBLIC TO BE SAFE ON ROADS, IN WATER FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY
With the 4th of July comes one of the most heavily travelled and potentially dangerous holidays of the year.
That being the case, state law enforcement officials are working to ensure area drivers and boaters stay safe with additional patrols.
Both the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) have announced ramped up efforts to crack down on impaired drivers and boaters through this holiday.
DPS said in a release it would be increasing traffic enforcement through tomorrow (Friday) as part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) and Operation Holiday. DPS troopers will also be looking for violators of the state’s Move Over, Slow Down law, in addition to traffic violations like DWI’s, speeding, and failure to wear a seat belt.
DPS Director Steven McCraw said it’s important to remember to celebrate the nation’s independence safely and responsibly. He said doing so can help ensure everyone makes it home safely.
Meanwhile, TPWD announced state game wardens will be on heightened alert for anyone boating under the influence. The department stated in a release these efforts will continue July 5-7 during the annual Operation Dry Water weekend, a nationally coordinated awareness and enforcement campaign to deter boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Cody Jones, TPWD Assistant Commander for Marine Enforcement, said boating under the influence can be just as deadly as drinking and driving. He called on all Texans to keep the state’s lakes safe and fun not just this holiday weekend, but throughout the year by limiting alcohol intake and always having a designated driver.
To learn more on driving or boating safety, visit www.dps.texas.gov, or https://tpwd.texas.gov.