The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is working to keep people safe on the Thanksgiving holiday and the surrounding days. They are warning of “Blackout Wednesday,” a growing trend where people excessively consume alcohol the night before Thanksgiving. The Sheriff’s Office is combining clear messaging beforehand with extra enforcement the night of, in an effort to prevent accidents before the holiday. They are also working towards bolstering emergency response efforts in Christian and surrounding counties.
Chief Deputy Jim Baker is preparing his team for Blackout Wednesday. In addition to the extra enforcement, he urges people to treat the night like New Year’s Eve and stay home if possible.
Chief Deputy Baker says he has noticed an increase in these incidents in the county over the years and adds that the day’s various nicknames are also indicative of the added concern.
Outside of Blackout Wednesday, an initiative is underway to facilitate law enforcement agencies throughout central and southern Illinois to collaborate during notable emergency situations. Agencies would be able to devote resources and clearly communicate what they can provide.
Baker says the team is working on protocols to ensure calls for backup clearly communicate what is needed.
Find out more about the Christian County Sheriff’s Office by visiting them at their Facebook page. You can also download the CCSO IL App on your mobile device for the latest news and information.
Jim Baker appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.