SOUTHFIELD (WWJ) -- Ahead of the holidays, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is reminding those who have indulged at parties and celebrations to avoid getting behind the wheel.
The "Tie One On for Safety" Red Ribbon campaign, now in its 35th year, aims to end drunk and impaired driving.
In support of the effort, law enforcement officials and first responders tie red MADD ribbons to their vehicles to serve as a reminder to practice safe driving throughout the holiday season, and year-round.
On Thursday, officers from over a dozen law enforcement agencies across metro Detroit gathered outside the WWJ Newsradio 950 studios to observe the kickoff of the campaign.
Members of the community shared how drunk driving has left devastating effects on their lives, and Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald assured that her office is taking drunk driving offenses more seriously than ever.
Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald speaks at MADD Tie One On for Safety campaign kickoffWWJ
According to data from MADD, nearly 6,300 people were injured and 430 people were killed in substance-impaired driving crashes in Michigan during 2020, which was up 11% from the year before.
Here are some of MADD's tips for safe driving this holiday season:
-Put safety before the party, plan ahead and always designate a non-drinking driver
-Never ride with someone who is impaired
-Choose to be the non-drinking designated driver
-Host parties that include mocktails and other non-alcoholic beverages and provide alternate transportation or accommodations for guests who choose to drink
Officers pose with vehicles after tying on red MADD ribbonsWWJ
For more information, and to find out how to participate in the Tie One On for Safety campaign, visit MADD's website.
