2026 is about to arrive, and many will be ushering it in by partaking in alcohol or other controlled substances. 

On the WHOW Morning Show Friday, DeWitt County Sheriff Mike Walker told the Hart Media Group that the focus of his office on New Year's Eve is to be present and visible in rural areas to prevent things like burglary and driving while intoxicated. 

The Sheriff is encouraging responsible celebrations this New Year's Eve. He says if you are going to drink or use controlled substances, organize a sober driver to help you and other drivers on the road to get home safely. 

Even if you will be sober during this end-of-year celebration, if you are on the roads, stay vigilant of other drivers who potentially made a poor decision to get behind the wheel.