How law enforcement will tackle the holiday travel
MARYLAND. – Dubbed Blackout Wednesday – the day before the Thanksgiving holiday, where young adults drink heavy amounts of alcohol. The unofficial term marks the start of Thanksgiving week, which is filled with festivities and parties.
WMDT spoke with local law enforcement on how they plan to keep things safe. Sheriff Matt Crisafulli of Worcester County said he has heard of the “TikTok holiday.”
“I have heard of Blackout Wednesday, and typically this is one of the 5 deadliest nights in the whole nation.”
Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis has heard of the drinking holiday as well, saying, “Hopefully it means nothing for most of us.”
As millions of Marylanders travel for Thanksgiving Thursday, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows the holiday remains one of the deadliest on the road.
Sheriff Lewis expects the streets to fill up starting tonight, Blackout Wednesday.
“This is a festive time of year, a kickoff for the holiday season. There will be a lot of people out for Blackout Wednesday partying and getting ready for the holiday. Just hope they use common-sense.”
Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli agrees. Calling for community members to be prepared when going out and drinking alcohol. “If there is going to be an alcoholic beverage, please have a designated driver. As I always say, a true designated driver.”
The state of Maryland experiences an 88% increase in crashes per day compared to a typical week. That data being attributed in a report here.
That ranks the fourth largest in the United States. “There are people alive right now as we’re doing this interview that may not be alive at the start of the work week, because of someone’s choice.”
Both Sheriffs emphasizing they will work together with allied forces to be in full force for the holiday events. Sheriff Lewis shares his final word ahead of the holidays.
“I hope they have a happy Thanksgiving, and doing so means everybody needs to arrive safely, and be considerate for all those around you. Leave in plenty of time, and drive carefully.”
