Ventura County, California – As football fans gear up for the excitement of the big game, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone that the best game plan includes getting home safely. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a gathering or enjoying the game at your favorite spot, planning ahead for a sober ride will keep you and everyone on the road safe.
“Super Bowl celebrations are a time for fun and community, but safety should always come first,” said Sergeant Matthew Ogonowski. “If you plan to drink, make sure you have a reliable way to get home, whether that’s a designated sober driver, rideshare, taxi or public transportation.”
During Super Bowl LIX weekend (February 7 and 8), the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Plan for a Safe Celebration
Before heading out for Super Bowl festivities, follow these tips to stay safe:
• Designate a Sober Driver: Choose someone ahead of time who will stay alcohol-free and make sure everyone gets home safely.
• Use Ridesharing Services, Taxis or Public Transportation: Rideshare apps and transit options are safe alternatives to driving if you’ve been drinking.
• Host Responsibly: If you’re hosting, offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverage options and make sure your guests have safe, sober rides home.
• Look Out for Others: Don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Take their keys and help arrange a safe ride.
• Never Drive Impaired or Distracted: It’s not worth the risk – your life and others’ lives depend on it!
Impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products and other drugs may also cause impairment. If you plan on drinking or taking medications with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive. If you see someone who appears to be driving while impaired, call 9-1-1.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jason Christmann
News Release Date: January 23rd, 2026
Approved by: Captain Jason B. Hendren
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Nature of Incident: Score Big on Safety: Celebrate Super Bowl Responsibly
Plan ahead with a sober ride before the big game
Location: County of Ventura
Date & Time: January 23rd, 2026
Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office