Law enforcement agencies from Bonney Lake, Sumner, Edgewood, Milton and the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department are joining East Pierce Fire and Rescue in displaying “Tie One On for Safety” ribbons on response vehicles to remind drivers of the hazards and ruined lives caused by drunk driving.

The program is part of a statewide effort led by Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Emergency responders often see first-hand the devastation felt by family and friends who have lost a loved one because of a drunk driver.

East Pierce Fire and Rescue Fire Chief Jerry E. Thorson said the fire department is particularly pleased to work with law enforcement on this effort.

“We have been involved in education events to limit impaired driving in the past, but this is our first time with the visible impact of the ribbons on our apparatus,” he said.

Although impaired driving is a problem all year long, Edgewood Police Chief Ed Knutson said, it can be particularly dangerous this time of year.

“Due to the number of parties and get-togethers, more people are willing to take the chance to drink and drive,” he said.

Combined with the season’s dark and icy roads, it’s even more important that drivers remain alert.

“This puts all of us at a higher risk of being affected by an impaired driver,” he said.

The chiefs have a few tips for revelers to avoid becoming a tragic statistic.

Bonney Lake Interim Police Chief Dana Powers suggested that anyone who will be celebrating with family and friends, and partaking in holiday cheer, should plan ahead and have a designated driver in place prior to heading out the door.

If you are hosting a party, Thorson recommended serving one of the many creative and festive non-alcoholic drinks available this time of year. He also suggests monitoring guest’s drinking.

“If they appear impaired, offer a ride home, or let them stay overnight,” he said.

Sumner Police Chief John Galle said the extra precautions are well worth the effort.

“It’s not worth the risk to you, your family, or the families of innocent victims,” Galle said. “Even one person injured or killed by an impaired driver is too much.”

For more information about the “Tie One On for Safety” campaign, visit at www.maddwashington.com.