PORT ORCHARD — South Kitsap High School’s cheerleaders are instituting a campaign for students, parents and the South Kitsap community to “Protect the Pack” — an effort to reach out with a reminder emphasizing safe driving this fall and winter.

In a news release, the cheerleaders said that “You are a Wolf. We are all Wolves. This is about community. We are all in this together.” The squad said that it’s imperative that “the Pack” drive safely, put away distractions and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Spokeswoman Cynthia Nunley said the squad is partnering with the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office, Port Orchard police and Target Zero to bring the message to the South Kitsap community.

“South Kitsap High School plays a part in all of our lives,” Nunley said, “either as a graduate, the parent of a student or the friend of somebody who went there.

“That makes us all a part of the Pack. We need to look out for each other, do the right thing and be responsible.”

That message is particularly important, the cheerleaders noted, because Homecoming is coming up on Saturday, Oct. 14, and winter weather is on its way.