GALENA, Ill. – The Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Office has announced the launch of a comprehensive Fourth of July traffic safety campaign, focusing on cracking down on impaired and unbuckled drivers. The initiative will run from June 20 through July 7, covering three summer weekends leading up to and following Independence Day, a period historically marked by increased traffic incidents.

“We’re asking all of our residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day safely,” said Lt. Kirk Raab, a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office. “It’s simple: If you’re driving, don’t drink or use cannabis or other impairing substances. Our officers will be working diligently to keep impaired drivers off the road and ensure everyone is buckled up.”

The Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Office will collaborate with the Illinois State Police and over 200 local police departments and sheriff’s offices across the state as part of this coordinated effort. The campaign is supported by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), which also funds the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “Drive High Get a DUI,” and “Click It or Ticket” initiatives. These efforts are bolstered by IDOT’s “It’s Not a Game” media campaign, which highlights the severe consequences of impaired driving and other dangerous behaviors.

To promote safe celebrations, the Sheriff’s Office offers the following tips:

• Give your designated driver your keys before heading out.

• If impaired by alcohol, cannabis, or any other drug, opt for a taxi, mass transit, a ride-sharing service, or a sober friend or family member to get home safely.

• Report impaired drivers to law enforcement by pulling over and dialing 911.

• Ensure all vehicle occupants wear seat belts, a legal requirement and the best defense against impaired drivers.

The Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, guided by its motto “Honor, Duty and Integrity,” remains committed to ensuring public safety during the holiday season. For more information, contact Lt. Kirk Raab at 815-777-2141 or kraab@jodaviesscountyil.gov.

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