(WNY News Now) – Chautauqua County Sheriff, James Quattrone, announced today the commencement of the STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign, a statewide initiative aimed at raising awareness about the perils of impaired driving during the Thanksgiving weekend.

Chautauqua County – As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, Chautauqua County law enforcement agencies, in collaboration with STOP-DWI Coordinators, are gearing up for a concerted effort to address the heightened risks of impaired driving during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. The campaign, running from November 22, 2023, to November 26, 2023, is part of a broader initiative by STOP-DWI NY and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee to curb incidents of impaired driving on key holidays throughout the year.

Millions of individuals across the state are expected to take to the roads to celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends, increasing the potential for accidents. In response to this, law enforcement officers will be intensifying their efforts to promote awareness of the dangers associated with impaired driving. The High Visibility Engagement Campaign is strategically timed to coincide with the Thanksgiving weekend, known for an uptick in travel and unfortunately, an increased risk of road accidents.

This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to prevent injuries and save lives by discouraging impaired driving. The STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign is a recurring program that extends its efforts to various holidays, including Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day/End of Summer, Halloween, Holiday Season, Super Bowl weekend, and St. Patrick’s Day. The goal is to make impaired driving less socially acceptable through visible and publicized law enforcement activities.

Members of the community are urged to contribute to the campaign by adopting a “Have a Sober Plan” approach. To facilitate this, STOP-DWI encourages individuals to download their mobile app, “Have a Plan,” which provides easy access to resources for finding a safe ride home. The organization emphasizes that impaired driving is entirely preventable with a little advance planning.

Sheriff James Quattrone highlighted the significance of public participation in creating a safer environment on the roadways. By supporting the STOP-DWI initiatives and having a sober plan in place, individuals can actively contribute to reducing the incidence of drunk and impaired driving. The campaign aims to foster a sense of responsibility and community awareness, ultimately making the roads safer for everyone.