DUI emphasis patrols planned

The North Idaho DUI Task Force will "significantly increase" patrols through Super Bowl weekend as part of a proactive measures to prevent impaired driving and ensure safety for all on the road, according to a news release. 

Drivers can expect increased police presence between Friday and continuing through late Sunday. Drivers should expect an increased police presence in high-traffic areas, including major highways and locally on backroads and bar district streets.

Authorities said there is an increase in DUI arrests and crashes around the Super Bowl, making it a critical time for law enforcement to step up their efforts.

“Whether you’re into football, or just there for the party, Super Bowl weekend is always a fun celebration, but we want to remind the community that impaired driving can lead to devastating consequences. Our goal is to keep everyone safe by taking impaired drivers off the road and preventing accidents before they happen,” said Lieutenant Jeff Howard of the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office. “Regardless of whether drinking is part of the plan, or something that just might end up happening, you are still responsible for what happens next — for having a gameplan to get home safely.”