Superblitz still ongoing

By Jim Tiffin
Cibola County Bureau

GRANTS — Grants Police are currently conducting a summer Superblitz looking for drivers who have been drinking.

Lt. Maxine Spidle said officers will not only be on the lookout for drunk drivers, but other traffic offenses as well, including non-use or incorrect use of seatbelts and child safety seats.

Anyone who sees a possible drunk driver, especially one whose actions may cause an accident, is asked to contact police at (505) 287-2984, or if the driver is extremely reckless, 911.

Driving while impaired may also include driving under the influence of drugs, even some prescription drugs, Spidle said.

"Everyone riding in a vehicle is required to wear a seat belt, even those in the back seat," Spidle said, "It's the law."

In case of an accident, seat belts help save lives and reduce injuries.

Spidle said heavier drinking comes with the summer. People go to the lake, barbecue, picnic, and with those events comes drinking.

"Please have a designated driver when you are drinking, no matter when," Spidle said.

"We (police) want to make sure everyone is safe during the holidays and the summer," she said.

With child safety seats comes an issue of incorrect use, she said.

The law requires children under the age of one to ride in a rear facing seat. They may ride in the front seat only if there is no back seat and no active air bag.

For children ages one through four, riding in a child safety seat is required.

Ages five through six are required to ride in a child safety seat or a booster seat and children under 60 pounds, regardless of age, are required to ride in a child safety seat or booster chair.

To contact reporter Jim Tiffin call (505) 287-2197 or e-mail: tiffin.independent@yahoo.com.