Deputies Increase Efforts Against Drunken Driving

Holiday revelers, take heed.

In a regional campaign to reduce DUI-related traffic crashes over the holiday season, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department plans to maximize its efforts to get intoxicated drivers off area roads and behind bars during the remainder of the year, according to the agency's public affairs office.

Widespread special enforcement operations, including a sobriety checkpoint planned for Friday evening in Poway, will augment an overall heightened focus on spotting and arresting inebriated motorists through Jan. 2, a period historically marred by increases in DUI accidents, sheriff's officials said.

""RUOK?' is the text message version of the often-heard question, "Are you okay to drive?' " the department noted in a statement announcing the annual crackdown. "If you have to ask someone the question, you already know the answer. You know they have had too much to drink or are showing signs of being "buzzed.' You know that they are not OK to drive. Call them a cab, take them home yourself (or) offer your couch."

Sheriff Bill Gore pointed out that there is "no spreading holiday cheer behind the bars of a jail cell."

"Don't let your 2011 holiday season end in an arrest or, worse, death," he said. "Remember, whether you've had way too many or just one too many, it's not worth the risk."

-City News Service