Powell County DUI Task Force

06/24/2026

An organization advocating against drunk driving hopes to bring more awareness about the life-altering consequences in the Flathead.

06/22/2026

The Powell County DUI Task Force would like to recognize The Corner Bar for their efforts during Territorial Days. We noticed Trina Kent actively checking IDs and using wristbands to identify patrons who were 21 and over. While it may seem like a small step, measures like these go a long way in preventing underage drinking and helping ensure alcohol is served responsibly.

Community events are safest when businesses, organizations, and community members work together. By taking extra precautions, establishments help protect our youth, reduce the potential for alcohol-related incidents, and contribute to a safer experience for everyone.

We'd also like to thank any other businesses and establishments that took additional steps to promote responsible alcohol service throughout the weekend. Your commitment to public safety is appreciated, and your efforts do not go unnoticed.

06/19/2026

Parked outside of K&M Breakfast Burgers & More is more than a wrecked patrol car. It is the final chapter of two lives forever changed by one decision.
The Powell County DUI Task Force is honored to partner with the Montana Highway Patrol to display the patrol vehicle of Trooper Michael W. Haynes, who was killed when an impaired driver struck him head-on. The intoxicated driver also lost their life that day. In just a matter of seconds, families were forever changed, careers ended, futures disappeared, and an entire community was left grieving.
We encourage every member of our community, parents, grandparents, and teenagers to stop and spend a few moments with this display. Look beyond the twisted metal. Read the story. Imagine the families who never got to say goodbye. Please understand that behind every impaired driving fatality is a ripple effect of heart break that reaches far beyond the crash itself. The vehicle isn't here to shock people. It's here to save lives.

We are sincerely grateful to K&M Breakfast Burgers & More for allowing this display to be placed outside their business, where it can serve as a powerful reminder to everyone who passes by.

One choice can take a life. One choice can save one. Let's choose wisely.

06/18/2026

Summer is here! So are the celebrations. Let's make sure everyone makes it home!

Summer brings Territorial Days, rodeos, concerts, barbeques, weekends at the lake, and nights spent with friends and family. These are the moments we look forward to all year... Unfortunately, summer also brings an increase in impaired driving crashes. In our own community, we've seen the devastating results that come from one decision. Those losses don't just affect one person, they forever change families, friends, first responders, and the entire community.

Whether you're of legal drinking age or not, the message is the same: If you've been drinking, don't drive.
If you're under 21, please remember that one bad decision can alter the course of your life before it has even truly begun. No party, no drinks, no night out is worth risking your future or someone elses.
To the adults in our community, your decisions matter just as much. Please set the example for the kids. If someone has been drinking take their keys and get them a ride. They may be frustrated with you tonight, but they'll have the opportunity to thank you tomorrow!!

As you enjoy Territorial Days and everything else this summer has to offer, please remember: A ride home is always cheaper than a DUI. It's priceless compared to a life.

03/25/2026

02/17/2026

From an April 16, 2024 Daily Montanan report: Montana 'Worst' for Drunk Driving Fatalities.

8.57 drunk drivers are involved in fatal crashes per 100,000 licensed drivers.
7.14 people are killed in crashes involving a drunk driver per 100,000 residents.

These aren’t just statistics, they are lives.

Plan ahead. Drive sober. Arrive alive.

Reduce. Educate. Prevent.
https://dailymontanan.com/2024/04/16/ratings-montana-worst-for-drunk-driving-fatalities/

02/09/2026

Who are you rooting for this Superbowl Sunday?
No matter the team, celebrate responsibly. Friends don’t let friends drive impaired. Plan ahead and designate a sober driver or choose a safe ride home.

02/08/2026

🏈🍻 Game Plan for Safety
Super Bowl Sunday is the biggest football celebration of the year and a big risk day for impaired driving.
Make your winning play before kickoff: plan a sober ride home 🏆

Don’t let a DUI be the story after the game. Be safe. Be smart.

12/31/2025