Lake County Gazette

The Round Lake Police Department is increasing efforts to prevent impaired driving during Halloween, urging residents to drive sober, wear seat belts, and obey traffic laws as children and families are expected to be out after dark for trick-or-treating.

The department reminds the public that both alcohol and cannabis can impair driving abilities. They stress the importance of planning a safe way home before attending any Halloween events. “Driving while impaired is never acceptable. Remember: DUIs are not limited to alcohol-related offenses. Driving under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or drugs is illegal – period. While cannabis may be legal for adults, if you drive high, you’ll still get a DUI.”

To promote road safety, the police encourage residents to designate a sober driver, use public transportation or ride-sharing services, or call a sober friend or family member for a ride. They also note that walking while impaired can be dangerous and recommend having a sober companion if needed. The department emphasizes the importance of always wearing a seat belt as protection against impaired drivers and crashes.

Community members are advised to report impaired drivers to law enforcement when safe to do so and to prevent impaired individuals from driving by taking their keys and helping them find an alternative way home.

These enforcement efforts are part of the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High. Get a DUI” campaigns. The initiatives are funded by federal highway safety grants administered by IDOT, with support from the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies throughout Illinois. The campaigns align with IDOT’s “It’s Not a Game” initiative to promote safe driving statewide.