Halloween is traditionally a time for ghosts, goblins and all things scary, but drinking and driving can cause true horror. The N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program is launching its annual Halloween “BOO-ze It & Lose It” campaign to remind drivers that if you drink and drive, you could face serious consequences.

“Halloween is a time for fun, but safety is our top priority,” said N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program Director Don Nail. “Everyone needs to know that drunk driving will not be tolerated by law enforcement, especially with the significant increase of pedestrians and drivers on our roads.”

In conjunction with the enforcement campaign, state officials will utilize the “Be Smarter Than That” campaign to provide easy access to safe transportation options for members of the public who plan to drink alcohol. The website BeSmarterThanThat.com allows users to designate a sober driver, download a ride app, find public transportation options, and find a taxi based on their location.

The N.C. Department of Transportation and Governor’s Highway Safety Program recommend following these simple tips for a safe Halloween if you plan to drink:

• Before you put your costume on, plan a way to safely get home at the end of the night by either designating a sober driver, downloading a ride app, checking on public transportation availability or programming a taxi number into your mobile phone.
• Walking impaired can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Designate a sober friend to get you home.
• If you see an impaired driver on the road, contact local law enforcement immediately.
• If you know someone who is about to drive or ride impaired, take their keys and help them make safe travel arrangements to where they are going.

Thousands of North Carolinians have taken the pledge to practice safe driving habits. Join them and find out more at NCVisionZero.org.

The Halloween “BOO-ze It & Lose It” campaign runs from today through Monday, Oct. 31.