AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Extra police officers are being deployed during this Spring Break holiday to ensure residents' safety on the road.
Amarillo Police Department (APD) said it will be taking steps to ensure that Spring Break is safe. Often times, according to APD, the break involves increased travel and increased celebrations where alcohol is involved. Corporal Neufeld with APD's Crime Prevention Unit said their number one concern is, of course, safety.
"People think that, oh I've only had one or two drinks, I'll be fine," he said. "But for every drink tha tyou have that reaction time get slowed down that much more."
Extra officers from APD will be out on patrol concentrating on impaired drivers, speeding violations and the failure to use seat belts and child seats, police said.
APD received a grant from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) earlier this year that compensates the extra officers. The grant ends at the end of September.
Police ask residents to plan ahead if they are drinking or hosting a party. That means having a designated driver.
The first offense of drunk driving can result in a fine of up to $2,000, up to 180 days in jail and an annual fee of $1,000 to $2,000 for three years to retain a driver's license. Recent studies, according to APS, indicate a DWI arrest and conviction can cost more than $17,000.
"Don't take the chance of one, all the expenses," added Neufeld. "But at the same time do you want to spend the rest of your life knowing that you put somebody in the hospital or you killing someone?"
"Be aware of your speed, wear your vehicle safety restraints and let's make this a safe holiday," APD said.
