A “DUI Tree” and DUI-themed Christmas carols formed part of the launch event for Colorado’s annual The Heat Is On Holiday Parties DUI enforcement campaign.
The 3D “DUI Tree” is decorated with 100 large white holiday lights. For every 10 DUIs reported during the enforcement period, a white bulb will be replaced on the tree with a red or blue bulb to represent police lights. Signs accompany the tree with the message, “You Choose — Holiday Lights or Police Lights.”
A collaboration between the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and statewide law enforcement agencies, the enforcement campaign will run through Monday, December 16.
“In 2018, one-third of all traffic fatalities on Colorado roads involved an impaired driver,” said Shoshana Lew, Executive Director of CDOT. “We encourage everyone celebrating the holidays to plan ahead and arrange for a sober ride home.”
This enforcement effort is part of CDOT’s ongoing The Heat Is On campaign to enforce Colorado DUI and DWAI laws and reduce the number of injuries and fatalities caused by impaired drivers in Colorado. During last year’s 10-day Holiday Parties enforcement period, 113 law enforcement agencies arrested 727 impaired drivers.
In December 2018, 20 percent of the 54 statewide traffic fatalities were impairment-related.
“There’s only one way to drive and that’s sober,” said Matthew Packard, Chief of the CSP. “Looking forward to the holiday season and the rest of 2019, we want everyone to think twice before getting behind the wheel while impaired. Whether it’s a sober friend, a ride-hailing service, or public transportation, make sure to plan ahead and secure a sober ride.”
