The Hartsville Police Department is participating in the Sober or Slammer! Campaign as the end of the “100 Deadly Days of Summer” approaches. Labor Day weekend is one that typically marks the end of summer holidays and celebrations across the country. This weekend is also busy in our area as tourists come into town for the Darlington Race weekend, so Hartsville Police Department wants to be sure that the roadways are a safe place for residents and visitors.

In 2020, there were 14 fatalities across the state during the Labor Day weekend. Overall in 2021, highway fatalities in South Carolina have increased this year compared to 2020, following a national trend. The latest data shows that there have been 684 people killed in total this year on S.C. roadways compared to 618 at this time in 2020.

During the Sober or Slammer! campaign, law enforcement across the state will place a strong emphasis on DUI reduction, safety belts, speed, and distracted driving behaviors. Hartsville Police Department’s DUI officer will be out working the roadway in conjunction with other state and local partners to increase enforcement during this weekend.

The Hartsville Police Department and their DUI Officer want to encourage those traveling the roadways to do so safely this weekend. Labor Day Weekend is full of many fun celebrations to close out a wonderful summer. The Department encourages anyone partaking in these celebrations to do so safely and designate a driver to get you home each night.