Lake County Gazette

The Lake Bluff Police Department will participate in statewide traffic safety campaigns during the Labor Day period, joining more than 200 law enforcement agencies across Illinois. Officers will increase patrols from August 15 through the early morning of September 2 to target impaired driving, enforce seat belt use, and address other unsafe behaviors.

“Driving under the influence — whether it’s alcohol, cannabis or any impairing drug — is not just risky, it’s illegal,” said Police Chief Matthew Smizinski. “We’ll be patrolling with zero tolerance for impaired driving, because our goal is to protect the people of Lake Bluff."

The campaign also includes enforcement of seat belt laws as part of “Click It or Ticket.” Authorities stress that wearing a seat belt is an effective way to prevent injury or death in crashes and remind all vehicle occupants to buckle up.

In addition to focusing on alcohol impairment, officers will look for drivers affected by cannabis and other drugs. The messaging “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High Get a DUI” is intended to raise awareness about the risks and legal consequences associated with impaired driving.

“We want our community to enjoy the holiday weekend safely and responsibly,” said Chief Smizinski. “Plan ahead, use a designated driver, and never get behind the wheel impaired. These decisions save lives.”

This initiative is part of a broader effort coordinated by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), which supports these enforcement actions with federal highway safety funds. IDOT's "It’s Not a Game" media campaign runs on various platforms to inform the public about the dangers of impaired driving.

For more information, Deputy Chief Erik Gehrke can be contacted at 847-283-8680 or via email.