CHENANGO COUNTY – Police and local officials are warning the public not to drive under the influence as they prepare special operations for the July 4 holiday weekend.

Chenango County STOP-DWI has announced that police agencies and STOP-DWI coordinators will participate in special efforts to bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving.

The statewide “STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaign,” will start on July 1 and will end on July 5.

The Fourth of July extended weekend is historically a deadly period for impaired driving. This year the 4th of July falls on a Monday so we expect heavy traveling to begin on Friday July 1.

Americans love to celebrate the Fourth of July with family, friends, food and fireworks, but all too often the festivities turn tragic on the nation's roads. The fact is this iconic American holiday is also one of the deadliest holidays of the year due to impaired-driving crashes.

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The STOP-DWI July 4th High Visibility Engagement Campaign is one of many statewide initiatives promoted by STOP-DWI NY and the governor’s traffic safety committee. The statewide programs also target Memorial Day, Labor Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Holiday Season, Super Bowl weekend and St. Patrick’s Day.

The Campaign aims to further reduce the incidence of drunk and impaired driving.

You can help to make a difference by having a sober plan. Download the mobile app, “Have a Plan,” and you will always be able to find a safe ride home www.stopdwi.org/mobileapp. Impaired driving is always preventable with a little planning.

– From the Chenango STOP-DWI program