As you celebrate the holiday season enjoying traditions, food, family and fun, be reminded that officers with the Benton Police Department will be out in force this holiday season from December 16, 2011, to January 2, 2012, to arrest anyone caught driving drunk behind the wheel.

“The message is simple, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.  Drinking alcohol and driving do not mix.  If you plan to consume alcohol, you should also plan not to get behind the wheel of a vehicle or ride a motorcycle,” said Lt. Kevin Russell with the Benton Police Department.

Unfortunately millions of drivers on America’s highways still think they are invincible, and they choose to jeopardize their safety and the safety of others on our roads, he said.

“There will be no spreading holiday cheer behind the bars of a jail cell,” Lt. Russell said. “Don’t let your 2011 holiday season end in an arrest or worse, death.  Remember, whether you’ve had way too many or just one too many, it’s not worth the risk.”  In December 2009, there were 753 people killed in crashes that involved drivers or motorcycle riders with blood alcohol concentrations of .08 grams per deciliter or higher.

Chief Kirk Lane of the Benton Police Department recommends these simple tips for a safe holiday season:

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home
• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation
• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact your local law enforcement
• And remember, Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over. If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take that person’s keys and help him or her make other arrangements to get home safely.