Lombard police officers will run extra patrols targeting impaired drivers from Friday, Oct. 23, through the morning of Monday, Nov. 2, the department announced.

The 11-day enforcement window covers the village's recommended trick-or-treat hours on Saturday, Oct. 31, when families are encouraged to go door-to-door between 3 and 7 p.m., according to a separate village notice. That notice also urged drivers to use extra caution on Halloween and watch for children walking near roadways or crossing streets, especially as daylight fades.

"With more children and families out in our neighborhoods, drivers need to slow down, pay attention and watch for pedestrians," Police Lt. Manny Camuy said in a department statement. "And if your plans involve alcohol or cannabis, make sure you have a sober ride home."

The patrols begin Friday.

The campaign falls under two statewide initiatives: "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" and "Drive High. Get a DUI." Both are funded by federal highway safety grants administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and supported by the Illinois State Police. The effort is part of IDOT's broader "It's Not a Game" initiative promoting safe driving across Illinois.

The department stressed that although cannabis is legal for adults in Illinois, driving while impaired by cannabis can still result in a DUI arrest. Illinois law requires seat belts for every driver and passenger.

Lombard police listed several steps residents can take to stay safe during the enforcement period:

  • Plan a safe way home before heading to a party or celebration.
  • Designate a sober driver.
  • Use public transportation or a rideshare service, or call a sober friend or family member for a ride.
  • Buckle up on every trip, no matter how short. The department called seat belts "your best defense against impaired drivers and crashes."
  • Report impaired driving when it is safe to do so.
  • If someone impaired is about to drive, take their keys and help arrange a safe ride.

The department also warned that walking while impaired carries its own risks and urged partygoers to have a sober companion for the walk home.

Residents can reach the Lombard Police Department at 630-873-4400 or call 911 for emergencies.