FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CELEBRATE SAFELY THIS HALLOWEEN: BUZZED OR HIGH? DON’T DRIVE.
Halloween is all about costumes, candy, and spooky fun—so before you head out, make a plan to get home safely not scary. Getting behind the wheel while impaired puts everyone at risk, whether you have been drinking or using any form of marijuana or other drugs. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Defiance County Safe Communities Coalition want to remind everyone: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving and If You Feel Different, You Drive Different.
In 2023, one person was killed every 42 minutes in a drunk-driving crash on our nation’s roads. From 2019 to 2023, 198 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes on Halloween night alone. And drug-impaired driving continues to claim lives every year—many of them preventable.
“An important part of celebrating Halloween is planning to get to your destinations and back home safely,” said Lt. Drew Waltmire of the Defiance Police Department “If you plan to drink or use any substance that could impair your driving—even prescription or over-the-counter medication—don’t get behind the wheel. Arrange a sober ride ahead of time. Your safety and the safety of others depend on it.”
Plan Ahead for a Safe Night
- Designate a sober driver before heading out.
- Use a rideshare or taxi if you’ve been drinking or using drugs.
- If you see someone trying to drive impaired, take the keys and help them find a safe way home.
- If you spot an impaired driver on the road, call local law enforcement.
Many people think they “drive better” when they’re buzzed or high, and that’s simply not true. Alcohol and drugs— including marijuana—slow reaction times, affect coordination, and cloud judgment. Even a small “buzz” can be dangerous.
So, this Halloween, keep the scares fun—not tragic. Drive sober, stay alert, and look out for trick-or-treaters and pedestrians.
Because whether you’re buzzed, high, or just a little “different” — if you feel it, don’t drive it.
For more information on safe driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving or visit defiancecohealth.org/traffic-safety/
Contact
Jessica West
Health Promotion Specialist
Public Information Officer
jessica.west@defiancecohealth.org
