Law Enforcement officials the Maryland State Police – Leonardtown Barrack and the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, DOD Police NAVAIR and DNR Police announced today they are joining forces with agencies across the State of Maryland to remind football fans that if you’re celebrating with alcohol, make the right decision before kickoff and designate a sober driver. This initiative includes the National Football League (NFL) and the Techniques for Effective Alcohol Management Coalition (TEAM)

Last year, 235 people died as a result of impaired driving-related crashes in Maryland and more than 5,100 people were injured. Crashes involving an impaired driver cost the State more than $1.3 billion – deaths, injuries, and costs that could have been avoided if the impaired driver had made the responsible decision to not drive after they had been drinking. Hitting closer to home, in St. Mary’s County last year alone 5 (30%) of the 17 friends, family and loved ones who died in motor vehicle crashes were killed in impaired driving crashes.

“We want everyone to make the right decision for Super Bowl,” said Lt. Brian Cedar, Maryland State Police. “Designating a sober driver should be an obvious call. Making sure designated drivers know how much we appreciate their responsible decision is what will make this year’s celebration extra special – and extra safe.”

Maryland law enforcement will be out in full force over the Super Bowl weekend to make sure that drivers are getting the message. During 2006, more than 24,000 people were arrested for DUI-related offenses and police hope that this year people get the message long before they ever get in the car and face a potential arrest.

“Besides the obvious fact that drunk driving leads to deaths on our roadways, many people don’t realize that an arrest for impaired driving can cost as much as $20,000 in legal fees, fines, and other costs,” said Sheriff Tim Cameron. “Your life, your freedom, and your money are at stake if you drive impaired and rest assured, you will be caught, you will be arrested, and you will go to jail.”

According to a 2005 Designated Driver poll completed by Data Development Corporation, 70% of the adult population have been a designated driver or have been driven home by one. That means 148 million Americans already know how to drink responsibly and prevent the needless tragedies that result from drunk driving. The message, “Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk,” applies not only to Super Bowl weekend, but everyday of the year.

Hosting a Super Bowl Party:

* Make sure all your guests or patrons designate a sober driver before kick-off, or help arrange ride-sharing with other sober drivers.

* Sales establishment, please remember to reward these dedicated, designated drivers; such as providing free soft drinks, complimentary appetizer or some other recognition.

* Give these designated drivers a great spot to watch the game.

* Have your Tipsy Taxi cards readily available to your bartenders and offer this program to those without a designated driver.

* Be sure to check IDs; never serve anyone under 21 alcohol, even in your home.

* Be sure to limit alcohol intake; encourage eating and alternating non-alcoholic drinks.

Attending the Party:

* Offer to be the designated driver and take the keys before the party begins.

* If yo