The North Coastal Prevention Coalition reacted with mixed emotions at the news that DUI arrests were down, but fatalities were up over the Labor Day holiday, according to a California Highway Patrol report.
Between Friday, Aug. 31 at 6:01 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 2 at 6 a.m., there were 46 DUI arrests in San Diego County compared with 58 in 2011.
Statewide, DUI arrest figures were 892 in 2012 and 1,008 for the same period a year ago.
That's the good news.
Unfortunately, fatalities for the same 36-hour period were 2 in San Diego County in 2012 compared to none last year, and 11 throughout California compared with 10 in 2011.
Before the end-of-summer holiday, the NCPC team headed by President Aaron Byzak and MADD put a full-court press into action raising awareness with local media.
The "STICKER SHOCK" campaign invite the media to cover cooperating businesses that discouraged providing or purchasing alcohol for underage drinkers around the Labor Day weekend, and throughout the year.
Participating businesses allowed youth prevention leaders and adult volunteers to place
stickers in English and Spanish on alcohol products stating: “Hey You!! It is ILLEGAL to provide alcohol for people under 21!!”
In addition, store personnel will distribute brochures with information about local ‘social host ordinances’ which hold party hosts responsible for ensuring minors do not have access to alcohol at private parties.
Learn more from our media coverage:
CW6's Marc Bailey interviews NCPC President Aaron Byzak
NORTH COUNTY TIMES: "Groups kick off campaign to curb underage drinking"
760KFMB: "North County substance abuse prevention groups remind adults not to buy alcohol for minors"
KGTV 10News: Story featuring Byzak on "STICKER SHOCK"
KBNT Univision: Youth Prevention Leaders Placed Stickers on Alcohol Products
KGTV 10News "Campaign Reminds Adults Not to Buy Alcohol for Minors"
PATCH Carlsbad: "MADD to Begin Campaign Against Underage Drinking"
KUSI: NCPC Youth Advocate Against Underage Drinking