BCPD - Significant Events Report - Week ending 12/12/2010

RF Crime Report week of Dec. 6 – 12, 2010

Making Merry? Then Don’t Drink and Drive

Baltimore County, Md. (December 15, 2010) - It’s hard to believe, but the holidays are in full swing. For some people, that means party time with lots of food and drink. There are some who prefer alcoholic beverages and to party hard. For those party revelers, there are some sobering numbers to think about before getting behind the wheel of any motorized vehicle. The Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level was .08 or higher when these drivers and/or passengers were killed. Here are the latest statistics:

* 10,839 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes in the United States in 2009.
* In Maryland, alcohol was to blame for the deaths of 162 people in 2009.
* In Baltimore County, 29 people died due to alcohol-related crashes in 2009.
* In Maryland, alcohol was responsible for the deaths of 27 people driving or riding on motorcycles in 2009. In Baltimore County, 13 motorcyclists or passengers were killed in 2009. In these crashes, the driver of the motorcycle or the driver of the car or truck may have been driving while drunk. Either way, alcohol was the common denominator.
* There were 85 fatalities in Baltimore County in 2009. Eight occurred November through December.

Keep Safe This Holiday

* Designated drivers or taxicabs are a must for anyone who wants to drink without worrying about getting behind the wheel.
* Eat plenty of food while drinking. A stomach full of alcohol can shorten the evening and make for a nasty morning after.
* For those who are hosting holiday parties, ask for the keys of all who come to the party. If someone wants to leave and has had too much to drink, call a cab, or have them stay the night. A good host does this to ensure the safety and well-being of guests and others who could be affected by someone who drinks and drives.
* The promise of a big breakfast in the morning is a good way to make unexpected guests feel glad you made them stay the night.

Chief Jim Johnson and the Baltimore County Police Department wish everyone a safe and happy holiday.

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Just a reminder for your RFCOP:

You may be seeing a decrease in major crime in our immediate area, but do not stop taking steps to protect yourself and your property. We hope that better awareness in our community has been a factor in decreasing burglaries, etc. But crime prevention is a year round event. Thank you all for your eyes, ears, and reporting anything suspicious!!

Have a SAFE and WONDERFUL Holiday season!!