Redlands police step up DUI enforcement through Labor Day

REDLANDS, Calif. — Redlands police will increase patrols for suspected impaired drivers beginning Wednesday and continuing through Labor Day as part of a national campaign aimed at preventing DUI crashes.

Additional officers will be on patrol from Aug. 19 through Sept. 7 looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, according to the Redlands Police Department.

The department also plans to conduct a DUI checkpoint sometime in August. A specific date and location were not announced.

The enforcement effort is part of the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" campaign.

“Enjoying the last days of summer should be all about fun and that starts with making safe choices before making plans,” RPD Sgt. Jeffrey Frisch said in a statement. “Everyone deserves to get home safely, and it starts with your everyday actions.”

The department is urging residents who plan to drink to arrange for a sober driver, use a ride-sharing service, take a taxi or use public transportation. Police also reminded drivers to wear seat belts, avoid distractions, follow speed limits and watch for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Impairment can also result from prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and cannabis products. Drivers are encouraged to check medication warning labels and arrange for a sober driver if a medication may affect their ability to drive.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 11,904 people were killed in crashes involving drunk drivers nationwide in 2024, or about one person every 44 minutes.

The additional enforcement is funded by a California Office of Traffic Safety grant through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.