SHERIFF
ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO HAVE A SAFE AND SOBER NEW YEAR
As the New Year approaches, we are reminded that a successful New Year's Eve celebration begins with careful planning which includes using designated drivers and not indiscriminately firing guns into the air," said Sheriff Lee Baca.
Sheriff Baca encourages the residents of Los Angeles County to celebrate the New Year without endangering themselves, their loved ones, or others by using firearms and/or alcohol in an irresponsible manner.
The critical importance of avoiding gunfire to celebrate the New Year cannot be overstated. Many times, individuals involved in celebrating New Year's Eve with gunfire do not realize the dangers posed by their actions. When a bullet is fired into the air, the bullet will climb up and remain in flight for about a minute, and ultimately fall back to earth with enough velocity to injure or kill someone.
The Sheriff's Department's "Operation - Don't Shoot" program strives to educate the public on the dangers of discharging firearms into the air. Posters and warning fliers, printed in both English and Spanish, have been distributed in highly visible locations throughout Los Angeles County to help residents become aware of the dangers associated with shooting firearms into the air. On December 30, 2003, Sheriff Baca united with Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton for a press conference, at the Los Angeles Police Academy, to highlight the joint efforts of both Departments to curtail this indiscriminate celebratory gunfire.
Alcohol-related traffic collisions and deaths can be significantly reduced with the use of a designated driver. Some communities offer free taxi service for those who have had too much to drink. A host should make safe transportation a primary consideration when planning a New Year's Eve celebration. Law enforcement agencies throughout Los Angeles County will be increasing their patrols in an effort to reduce drunk driving-related incidents.
"I wish all the people in Los Angeles County a Safe and Happy New Year," stated Sheriff Baca.
SHB-139A-03
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December 31, 2003