AVOID THE 12 SETS EXTRA PATROLS FOR OVER-IMBIBING FOOTBALL FANS ON SUPERBOWL SUNDAY

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY - February 1st, 2010

Whether the diamond-encrusted Super Bowl rings go to the Indianapolis Colts or the New Orleans Saints, law enforcement agencies in Santa Barbara County are cracking down on drunk drivers on Sunday, Feb. 7.

Avoid the 12 plans an unlucky number of 13 DUI patrols throughout the county. “These are specialized unit, dedicated solely to looking for impaired drivers,” warned Deputy Win Smith of the county Sheriff’s Dept., campaign coordinator.

“It’s a no-brainer to designate a completely sober person to drive everyone else home safely from the event,” he remarked. “It costs nothing and saves lives routinely. Just do it before you leave for the party, because alcohol tackles everyone’s good judgment.”

Smith also suggests that people keep on the lookout for dangerous drivers and call 911 on their cell phones if they see one.

“The dispatcher will want to know where you are, which way you’re traveling and the description of the car. You won’t get into trouble for using your cell phone while driving; this is an exception to the rule.”

Avoid the 12, named for the dozen law enforcement agencies in the county, will hit the roads again for the Saint Patrick’s Day weekend. The California Office of Traffic Safety funds it through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.