MINOT AIR FORCE BASE – The Safe Rides program, launched in March 2024, provides free and reliable transportation for military members and their dependents who may be impaired or facing potentially unsafe driving situations.

Operating Thursday through Sunday from 9 p.m.-3 a.m., the program ensures service members have a safe alternative to driving or riding with someone who is impaired. Those needing a ride call a specific phone number.

“Rides are completely confidential and will not be reported to leadership,” said Senior Airman Jamari Daley, media coordinator for Safe Rides.

The program is staffed entirely by volunteers and is a nonprofit initiative specifically aimed at increasing safety and reducing DUIs and other impaired driving incidents within the base community.

“On average, we receive about three to five ride requests each weekend,” said Airman 1st Class Katherin Varela Loaiza, Safe Rides scheduler. “Fridays and Saturdays are usually our busiest nights.”