Photo Credit: Rod PradoNews
Joint Press Conference launches “Create Memories, Not Memorials” Campaign for the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer
Today, a united front of law enforcement and public safety leaders from across Montgomery County convened outside the Montgomery County Forensics Center to address the critical issue of summer safety. The coalition announced the launch of their annual campaign focused on the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer,” with a powerful new motto: “Create Memories, Not Memorials.”
Watch the video of the press conference on the Hello Woodlands YouTube Channel:
Montgomery County District Attorney Brett Ligon and his staff highlighted the crucial role parents play in ensuring the safety of their children. Their remarks focused on the necessity of open communication regarding the dangers of drinking and driving, distracted driving, online safety, and child abuse awareness. “Parents, please hear me. As we begin the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer, we cannot let their freedom become their funerals. That’s the first thing. The second is this—your teenagers are still your responsibility. They need your rules and your reminders.”
County Judge Mark Keough underscored the strong collaborative spirit within Montgomery County, acknowledging the vital cooperation between all members of law enforcement, EMS, Fire, and organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving, who were present at the event. “Parents, we need your help. Teens are three times more likely to be involved in a crash during this time of year, and 60 percent of those crashes are caused by distracted driving.”
Sheriff Wesley Doolittle detailed the Sheriff’s Office’s proactive initiatives aimed at curbing dangerous roadway behaviors. He reiterated a firm stance: “Impaired, distracted, or otherwise dangerous driving will not be tolerated in Montgomery County. We are committed to ensuring the safety of all our residents and visitors.”
Chief Prosecutor Taylor Vanegas, who leads the District Attorney’s Vehicular Crimes Unit, announced that the No Refusal Program would be in effect throughout Memorial Day Weekend. “We’re not just here to write tickets or make arrests,” Vanegas said. “We’re here for compliance and for safety. We want people to make it home.”
The Montgomery County Hospital District addressed the critical importance of pool and water safety. They reminded families that drowning is often silent and can occur in mere seconds, urging parents to remain vigilant around water. Chief James Campbell of the Montgomery County Hospital District shared, “Whether you’re spending time in the warm weather swimming or enjoying other activities, we hope you keep safety a high priority.”
Chief Prosecutor Brittney Aaron of the District Attorney’s Special Victims Unit addressed the increased risks to children during the summer, particularly related to online activity. “Please talk to your kids—the more time they spend online, the more exposure they have,” she said. “Predators aren’t taking a summer break. They’re in chatrooms, on gaming platforms, and all over social media.”
Participating agencies included the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Montgomery County Commissioners Court, Montgomery County Hospital District, Woodlands Fire Department, The Woodlands Township, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), Montgomery County Constables from Precincts 1 through 5, and the police departments of Conroe, Magnolia, Oak Ridge North, Shenandoah, and Splendora.
This unified partnership exemplifies the strong and cohesive working relationship among Montgomery County’s public safety partners. The collective message was clear: prioritize safety this summer. Let’s focus on creating joyful memories and actively prevent the heartbreak of memorials. Have fun, and please be safe.
Sources: Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office
UPDATED 5/22: Participating agencies and MCDAO remarks added
