Score Big on Safety: Celebrate Super Bowl Responsibly

Plan ahead with a sober ride before the big game 

As football fans gear up for the excitement of the big game, the Santa Barbara Police Department reminds everyone that the best game plan includes getting home safely. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a gathering or enjoying the game at your favorite spot, planning ahead for a sober ride will keep you and everyone on the road safe. 

“Super Bowl celebrations are a time for fun and community, but safety should always come first,” said Drinking Driver Team Officer C. Garcia. “If you plan to drink, make sure you have a reliable way to get home, whether that’s a designated sober driver, rideshare, taxi or public transportation.” 

On the weekend of Super Bowl LX Sunday (February 7th and 9th) the Santa Barbara Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Plan for a Safe Celebration

Before heading out for Super Bowl festivities, follow these tips to stay safe:

• Designate a Sober Driver: Choose someone ahead of time who will stay alcohol-free and make sure everyone gets home safely.
• Use Ridesharing Services, Taxis or Public Transportation: Rideshare apps and transit options are safe alternatives to driving if you’ve been drinking.
• Host Responsibly: If you’re hosting, offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverage options and make sure your guests have safe, sober rides home.
• Look Out for Others: Don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Take their keys and help arrange a safe ride.
• Never Drive Impaired or Distracted: It’s not worth the risk – your life and others’ lives depend on it!

Impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products and other drugs may also cause impairment. If you plan on drinking or taking medications with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive. If you see someone who appears to be driving while impaired, call 9-1-1.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.