As families across Harris County prepare for one of the busiest travel and gathering seasons of the year, Commissioner Lesley Briones is urging residents to take simple and preventive steps that can save lives. Through her “Safe Holidays 4 a Safer Harris County” call to action, she is elevating concerns around impaired driving, domestic violence, and unsecured firearms in homes with children. These issues historically worsen during the holiday season and require greater community awareness.
“Safety is my top priority, especially during the holidays when families are traveling and gathering,” said Commissioner Lesley Briones. “This work is deeply personal to me. I remember losing a classmate to drunk driving and seeing the empty chair at graduation, and now, with my oldest daughter preparing to drive, I want every child and every family in Harris County to get home safely. By preventing impaired driving, supporting survivors of domestic violence, and promoting secure firearm storage to protect our children, we can prevent tragedies and keep our communities safe together.”
“During the holidays we see the best in people, but we also see some of the most preventable tragedies,” said Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. “Our DWI unit has already made 571 impaired driving arrests this year, and we will have enhanced enforcement on the roads because one bad decision can destroy a family in an instant.”
“We are stepping up DWI initiatives, patrols and safe exchange zones, but enforcement is only part of the solution,” said Harris County Precinct 1 Constable Alan Rosen. “Plan ahead, use our resources and make smart choices so everyone has the chance to get home safely for the holidays.”
Holiday travel brings increased risk on local roads. More than 30 percent of vehicle fatalities in Harris County involve impaired driving. This share is higher than both the Texas average and the national average. December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, and year after year, DWI contribute to nearly one third of fatal crashes statewide during this time. Officials are encouraging residents to plan safe rides in advance, avoid driving while impaired, and step in when a friend or family member may be at risk.
“Every impaired driving case represents a family whose life has changed forever,” said Whitney Rasberry, Division Chief of Vehicular Crimes for Harris County District Attorney’s Office. “Most of our fatal crashes happen close to home, which is why planning a sober ride before you celebrate is so important and why we are prepared to hold impaired drivers accountable.”
“As a mother who lost my daughter Destiny to a drunk driver, I live with an empty chair at my table every day,” said Charisse Thomas with Mothers Against Drunk Driving. “Please do not drink and drive; think about the families who never get a second chance.”
Safety concerns inside the home also rise during the holidays. Financial pressure, emotional strain, and reduced access to support services often lead to an increase in domestic violence. Harris County experienced a 34 percent increase in domestic violence homicides between 2023 and 2024. Nationally, law enforcement agencies respond to approximately 20 percent more domestic violence calls in December.
To meet these challenges, Harris County has strengthened partnerships with more than a dozen survivor support organizations and invested more than 20 million dollars in services since 2022. The Domestic Violence Assistance Fund has helped more than 3,800 households and 6,650 individuals. The Early Childhood Resiliency Fund is providing children affected by violence with mental health consultations, counseling, and home visits. These initiatives reflect the County’s long-term commitment to helping survivors rebuild their lives.
“For many survivors, the holidays are the most dangerous time of the year, not the most joyful,” said Amy Smith, Senior Director of Operations & Communications for Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council. “Believe the people in your life who disclose abuse, help them find safety and remember that we must stop blaming victims and hold perpetrators accountable.”
Firearm safety is another major concern during the holidays when more children and visitors are present in homes. Firearms are now the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States. In Harris County, most firearm deaths among youth ages 0 to 17 are homicides. Many unintentional shootings involving children occur when firearms are left unsecured. Officials are urging residents to use gun locks or safes, keep firearms unloaded, and store ammunition separately.
Commissioner Briones emphasized that creating a safe holiday season does not require major changes. Small preventive steps can make a significant difference. Avoiding impaired driving, checking on loved ones, seeking help in moments of crisis, and practicing responsible firearm storage all contribute to a safer Harris County.
“We see more deadly home fires in November, December and January than at any other time of year,” said Harris County Fire Marshal Laurie Christensen. “Giving space heaters room, blowing out candles, checking smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and practicing two ways out with your family can prevent devastating losses.”
“Our goal is for every shopper and every family to feel safe whether they are in a parking lot, at a mall or walking back to their car,” said Chief Deputy Jordan Goff, Harris County Constable Precinct 5. “Park in well-lit areas, secure your purchases and if something does not feel right, contact law enforcement.”
“We can increase patrols and run mobility and DWI task forces, but community awareness is just as important as enforcement,” said Assistant Chief Deputy John Hecker, Harris County Constable Precinct 4. “Check on neighbors who may be alone, watch for signs of crisis and remember that a small act of kindness can make a real difference for someone who is struggling.”
“Safe Holidays 4 a Safer Harris County” reflects Commissioner Briones’ ongoing commitment to community safety and family well-being throughout the year.