Click on thumbnail to enlarge

As residents prepare to welcome the New Year, the Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office is reminding the community to celebrate responsibly and prioritize safety during New Year's Eve festivities.

On December 31st, deputies will be actively patrolling Caddo Parish to ensure the safety of motorists, pedestrians, and neighborhoods. Special emphasis will be placed on impaired driving, seat belt compliance, and other traffic violations that can endanger lives.

"New Year's Eve should be a time for celebration, not tragedy," stated Sheriff Henry Whitehorn Sr. "We urge everyone to make smart choices, plan ahead, and look out for one another so that we can all start the New Year safely. It is also important to remember that shooting firearms into the air is illegal. Remember, what goes up must come down."

The Sheriff's Office offers the following safety tips:

- Plan a sober ride home if you will be consuming alcohol. Use a designated driver, rideshare service, or taxi.
- Never drive impaired by alcohol, drugs, or any substance that affects your ability to drive.
- Buckle up — seat belts save lives.
- Avoid celebratory gunfire, which is illegal and extremely dangerous.
- Secure your home and vehicle** before leaving for celebrations.
- Parents should know where their children are and who they are with.
- Citizens are encouraged to report impaired drivers or suspicious activity by calling 911 or the Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office at  318-675-2170.

The Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office wishes everyone a happy, healthy, and safe New Year!

For questions regarding this press release, please contact Breck Scott