STOP-DWI high-visibility engagement campaign in place for St. Patrick's Day weekend

Submitted by the Niagara County Sheriff's Office

Niagara County Sheriff Michael J. Filicetti announces the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, in partnership with law enforcement agencies throughout the county, will participate in a critical initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. The coordinated effort aims to reduce impaired driving-related accidents, injuries and fatalities, by ramping up enforcement and education efforts across New York state.

From Thursday, March 13, through Tuesday, March 18, law enforcement will be actively patrolling the roads as part of the statewide STOP-DWI high-visibility engagement campaign. The goal is to combat impaired driving by increasing visibility, deterring dangerous behavior, and encouraging responsible decision-making among drivers.

This campaign, timed to coincide with St. Patrick's Day celebrations, is part of a larger, year-round initiative supported by STOP-DWI New York and the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee. In addition to major holidays such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, Memorial Day weekend, the July 4 weekend and Labor Day, this effort is also implemented around other high-risk periods like the Super Bowl and the holiday season.

While New York state has seen significant reductions in alcohol and drug-related fatalities due to STOP-DWI campaigns, impaired driving remains a leading cause of preventable deaths. The continued focus on high-visibility patrols and public education is aimed at further decreasing impaired driving incidents, making our roads safer for everyone.

Filicetti and the Niagara County Sheriff's Office urge all drivers to stay sober and make responsible decisions while behind the wheel. If you plan on drinking or using impairing substances, please designate a sober driver, use public transportation, or arrange for a ride-sharing service. By working together, we can help prevent tragedies and save lives.