This holiday season, the Goleta Police Department wants to remind the public about the importance of being safe and sober when driving.

While the COVID-19 pandemic is changing how community members celebrate the holidays, the Goleta Police Department urges people to stay at home or use a designated sober driver if they plan to drink.

Throughout the holiday season, Goleta Police will have officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The enforcement effort is part of a national campaign, Driver Sober or Get Pulled Over, intended to show zero tolerance for drunk driving and keep roads safe.

“This year has been challenging and difficult on all of us,” said Sgt. John Maxwell. “The last thing we need is more heartbreak and tragedy. Make the right choice by not driving impaired so everyone can have a safe holiday.”

The Goleta Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just caused by alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and marijuana can also impair, especially in combination with alcohol and other drugs. Do your research and understand how certain drugs you are taking may affect your driving ability.

Due to COVID-19, the state of California is asking residents to avoid large gatherings for the holidays to mitigate the spread of the virus.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The city of Goleta contracts with the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office for law enforcement services.