EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Red Sands is expected to draw large crowds this Fourth of July but law enforcement is hoping it’s not another year of emergency calls and fatal crashes.
El Paso County Sheriff’s deputies and emergency medics will be stationed at the popular off-road recreational area, patrolling in ATVs and 4×4 vehicles to respond quickly to emergencies.
Red Sands has become a go-to celebration spot for many El Pasoans, especially on July 4th but the combination of high-speed off-roading, fireworks, and alcohol has made it an area of concern.
“We have ATVs, RZRs, 4-wheelers, 4×4 trucks traveling in all different directions at a high rate of speed,” El Paso County Sheriff Oscar Ugarte said. “Unfortunately, a lot of those people are also drinking and driving. So it is a very serious problem that we have out there.”
The Red Sands patrol is part of a larger effort known as the “Safe Streets Operation,” a Countywide crackdown on impaired driving and reckless behavior.
Ugarte says every municipality in the County, including Horizon, Socorro, and Anthony will have teams specifically focused on DWI enforcement throughout the weekend. Ugarte adds patrols will remain in place through Sunday night, with extended enforcement across the entire County.
“We want the community to enjoy the weekend but be responsible. If you’re going to drink, make a plan. Don’t get behind the wheel,” he added.
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