Bringing Attention to DUI

On November 15, 2025, the 42nd Annual Donald H. Barrett “Lights On” Caravan made its way from Centro headquarters near downtown Syracuse to Minoa Fire Station #1. Each year, this procession brings together police, fire, EMS, towing services, funeral directors, and other public-safety partners from across Onondaga County. With lights on and moving as one, the caravan is a visible reminder of lives lost to drunk driving and a renewed call for safe choices on the road.

The message is unmistakable as the vehicles travel: emergency lights stand as a tribute to those who have died in alcohol-related crashes, and as a warning never to drive impaired. The tradition has become a powerful symbol of remembrance and prevention in Central New York.

Purpose of the Caravan

The Lights On Caravan raises public awareness about the dangers of impaired driving — especially during seasons when alcohol-related crashes historically increase. The event encourages everyone to plan ahead: designate a sober driver, call a taxi or rideshare, or make alternate arrangements before drinking begins.

Just as importantly, the caravan honors those who have been lost. Its visibility and scale keep the focus on both prevention and remembrance, reminding the community that impaired-driving tragedies are preventable.

About the Founder: Donald H. Barrett

The event was founded by Donald H. Barrett, a Madison County resident whose son was killed by a drunk driver in 1984. Determined that other families would not suffer the same loss, Barrett became one of Central New York’s most dedicated victim-advocates.

His work included:

• Founding A.V.I.D. (Assisting Victims of Impaired Drivers) in 1985
• Serving as president of C.C.A.D.D. (Concerned Citizens Against Drunken Driving)
• Creating victim-support resources such as the pamphlet “Are You a Victim of a Drinking Driver?”
• Establishing and directing the Onondaga County Victim Impact Panel Program beginning in 1992
• Serving on the New York Sheriffs’ Victim Advisory Board
• Supporting development of the VINE victim-notification system.

Barrett passed away in 2013 at age 80, leaving a long legacy of advocacy, compassion, and community leadership.

Importance and Impact

Over more than four decades, the Lights On Caravan has grown from a personal memorial to one of the region’s most recognizable public-safety observances. Supported by the Onondaga County Traffic Safety Advisory Board and numerous partner agencies, it is believed to be the oldest continuously running DWI-awareness caravan in the United States.

Each year, 80–100 vehicles join the procession, creating a powerful visual carried by local media and widely seen throughout the community. The lasting impact of the event includes:

• Keeping impaired-driving prevention in public conversation
• Reinforcing safe-driving decisions during high-risk seasons
• Honoring victims and supporting families
• Strengthening collaboration among local police, fire, EMS, and traffic-safety agencies

For many, the caravan stands as both a prevention message and a memorial. It reflects Donald Barrett’s life’s work — supporting victims, educating the public, and encouraging safer roads for all.