The annual Mothers Against Drunk Driving safety awareness campaign will begin with a free event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. next Friday at Tamarind Park in downtown Honolulu.

Educational booths, local music and red ribbons will be available to initiate the “;Tie One On for Safety”; campaign.

Originally called the “;Red Ribbon Campaign,”; it began in 1986 to remind people it is dangerous to drink and drive.

Residents were encouraged to tie a red ribbon on the antenna or side mirror of their vehicle. The ribbon has continued as a symbol to prevent drunken driving and as a holiday season tradition.

MADD says drunken driving also increases during this season, and is asking residents to take these steps to help stop it:

» Tie red ribbons on family vehicles.
» Always use a designated driver.
» Display drunken-driving statistics in your office.
» Record a message about safe and sober driving on your cell phone.
» Be a responsible party host.
For more information about the campaign and additional free ribbons, call 532-6232 or see www.maddhawaii.com, or follow MADD on Twitter, @maddhawaii.