Target Zero has recommendations to celebrate responsibly this holiday season

While celebrating the final weeks of the holiday season, Target Zero is asking drivers to celebrate responsibly and remember of all the families who are missing loved ones who died in traffic crashes.

Traffic data through October of 2022 shows that 639 people in Washington have died in traffic crashes this year. Traffic fatalities reached a 20-year high in 2021, and 2022 is on pace to have even more traffic-related deaths, according to Mark McKechnie of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission. He said more than half of those deaths involve impaired drivers.

On Saturday, law enforcement agencies from Southwest Washington will gather in Battle Ground for the Night of 1000 Stars event. The Mobile Impaired Driving Unit will be on site for tours. Following the event, law enforcement officers will head out on patrol, in memory of the victims who have lost their lives due to crashes involving impaired drivers.

Participating agencies include: Battle Ground Police Department, Clark County Sheriff’s Office, Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency, Vancouver Police Department, Ridgefield Police Department, and the Washington State Patrol.

Target Zero, a strategic highway safety plan for the state of Washington, has recommendations for those traveling on the roadways.

• Before celebrating, plan a safe and 100-percent sober ride home.
• Intervene, when safe to do so, to prevent someone from getting behind the wheel if the person has used alcohol or drugs. 
• Offer to be a sober-designated driver.
• Hosts of a party should remind their guests to ensure a sober ride home or offer space for an impaired person to stay.
• If you see an impaired driver, call 911.
  Always wear a seat belt. 

The Night of 1000 Stars is not open to the public. The event recognizes law enforcement and remembers the lives of those lost in traffic crashes.