TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Transportation urges everyone to observe the Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk safety campaign for this year’s Super Bowl, which is Sunday, Feb. 12. Make sure anyone planning to drink alcohol has a designated driver to help get home safely.

The Kansas initiative is part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s annual campaign. Impaired driving results from alcohol, drug or substance use affecting the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle and puts your life and the lives of others in danger.

The monetary costs of driving under the influence can have a devastating financial impact and can also effect being able to keep or get employment. Law enforcement agencies across the state will combine resources beginning Friday, Feb. 9, through Sunday, Feb.12, to detect, arrest and remove impaired drivers.

“We want everyone to enjoy Super Bowl festivities, but we also want responsible drivers on our roads,” said Gary Herman, KDOT Behavioral Safety Manager. “If you are planning to be away from home during the Super Bowl, make a game plan so you don’t find yourself without a designated driver if you need one. Make a commitment to refrain from impaired driving.”

Remind everyone: Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk. For people hosting parties, make sure those who are drinking have designated drivers. For those drinking alcohol at a bar or restaurant, have sober drivers designated in advance or call a sober person for transportation.

People planning to serve as designated drivers on Super Bowl Sunday are the day’s MVPs. Encourage other designated drivers to use the hashtag #DesignatedDriver on social media. Only one team wins the Super Bowl, but all those who commit to sober driving can be winners as well.

For more information, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving or ktsro.org