The Escondido Police Department will be on heightened alert for possible DUI suspects this Friday.
Additional officers will be out on patrol from 4 p.m. Friday to 1 a.m. Saturday, according to Escondido police.
“As we approach the Fourth of July holiday period, we are urging motorists to be responsible and driver sober,” Interim Chief of Police Ryan Banks said.
“We want everyone to be responsible when consuming alcohol, using recreational marijuana and even taking prescription drugs. Any time you are impaired, do not get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Find a sober driver or arrange alternate transportation.”
Police reminded the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol, but some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may also interfere with driving, according to the department.
“While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal. Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license,” the department said in a statement.
Funding for DUI patrols was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
