Sign wavers oppose drunken driving

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In a continuing effort to raise public awareness about alcohol laws pertaining to beach parks, Community Policing officers on the Big Island and representatives of the Salvation Army waved anti-drunken driving signs Friday along the road that leads to and from several beach parks in Hilo.

In a continuing effort to raise public awareness about alcohol laws pertaining to beach parks, Community Policing officers on the Big Island and representatives of the Salvation Army waved anti-drunken driving signs Friday along the road that leads to and from several beach parks in Hilo.

Many motorists passing the sign wavers along Kalanianaole Avenue honked their horns in support of the message promoting sober driving.

Lt. John Briski said one of the reasons alcohol is prohibited at beach parks is that those drinkers often drive home while they are still under the influence of alcohol, placing themselves and other innocent motorists, passengers and pedestrians at risk of death or injury.

Two weeks ago, police and community groups held a community outreach project at Richardson Beach Park to provide information about alternative programs for youth and about the laws regarding drinking alcoholic beverages and smoking tobacco at beach parks. The outreach and sign waving projects were part of several community awareness events that police have planned over the next several months as the holidays approach.

Any groups or individuals who wish to participate in any future projects may call the Community Policing Section at 961-8121.