Make roads safe, not scary, this Halloween

The Hinsdale Police Department is urging motorists to keep scary driving off the road this Halloween.

As part of the drunken driving enforcement and awareness campaign, drivers are asked to commit to sober driving during a time when children and their families will be walking through neighborhoods after dark in search of candy and spooky fun.

“Heading out to a Halloween party? Before the fun starts, decide how you’ll get home,” Deputy Chief Thomas Lillie said. “Just one drink or hit can impact your ability to drive safely and make responsible decisions. Planning ahead will help keep you — and others — safe.”

Officials caution to never get behind the wheel impaired. It is illegal in Illinois to drive impaired by alcohol, marijuana or any other impairing substance. DUIs are not restricted to alcohol-related offenses.

Hinsdale police also advise everyone to follow these simple tips to help keep the roads safe this Halloween:

• Plan a safe way to get home before you attend a party.

• Designate a sober driver, take public transportation, use your favorite ride-sharing app, or call a sober friend or family member to get home.

• Walking while impaired can be just as dangerous as driving impaired. Designate a sober friend to accompany you home.

• If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact local law enforcement as soon as it is safe to do so.

• If you see an impaired person about to drive, take their keys and help them get home safely.

The Halloween enforcement and awareness effort is funded by federal highway safety dollars administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.