Delaware Troopers Urge Caution Ahead of 4th of July

As we approach the Independence Day holiday on July 4th, the Delaware State Police is sending a happy holiday to residents and visitors, but is also issuing a public safety message.

Troopers say they will be focusing on deterring, tracking, targeting and arresting impaired drivers to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries on state highways. They will also focus on pedestrian safety and enforcement, distracted driving, seat belt violations, unrestrained children in vehicles and aggressive driving like speeding, following too closely and driving under the influence.

Troopers provided these tips to make sure you stay safe on the roadways: Ensure all occupants are properly restrained, plan a safe way home before the festivities begin, Before drinking, designate a sober driving and give that person your keys, If you see a drunk or aggressive driver on the road, immediately contact 9-1-1 as soon as possible and If you know someone who is about to drive while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arraignments to get to where they are going safely.

State Police also provided a fireworks safety advisory to residents. An estimated 9,100 people were treated in the nation’s hospitals for injuries related to the use of fireworks in 2018. 5,600 of those injuries happened on July 4th.