Police increase presence for New Year's Eve

AUSTINTOWN -- As part of the national "You Drink and Drive, You Lose" campaign, Mahoning Safe Communities is working with the Mahoning County Sheriff's Department and other law enforcement organizations to protect everyone from impaired drivers during the New Year's holiday by mobilizing highly visible enforcement.
The key to deterring impaired driving is highly visible enforcement. Prevention, and not arrest, is the goal of the campaign, said Tracy Styka, the health board's Safe Communities coordinator.
As part of the effort, the sheriff's department will have additional enforcement on U.S. Route 224 and Mahoning Avenue in the western part of Mahoning County beginning at 10 tonight, Styka said.
"If you find it hard to figure out if you've had too many drinks to drive -- don't risk it. Chances are if you're feeling 'buzzed' you are too impaired to drive safely," Styka added.
Mahoning Safe Communities suggests that party hosts include alcohol-free beverages and protein-rich foods, along with reminding guests to plan and to remember the following advice:
UIf you plan to drive, don't drink.
U Choose a sober designated driver.
UTake mass transit or a taxicab.
USpend the night where the activity is being held.
UReport impaired drivers by calling (800) GRAB-DUI, or cellular *DUI.
UAlways wear your seat belt. It is your best defense against an impaired driver.