The California Highway Patrol is preparing for this heavily-traveled time of year by educating the motoring public about safety on
the roadways.

As part of its upcoming maximum enforcement period the CHP is reminding travelers to buckle up, adhere to the posted speed limit, avoid distractions behind the wheel, and always designate a sober driver.

The enforcement effort begins Dec. 24 at 6pm. and continues through Dec. 28  at 11:59pm. During this all available officers will be out on the roadways for enhanced enforcement efforts and assisting motorists wherever needed.

An anti-DUI effort is aimed at eliminating drunken driving by educating Californians about the dangers of driving after consuming alcoholic beverages. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 10,000 people are killed annually in the U.S. by drunken drivers.

During the 30 hours of last year’s Christmas holiday enforcement, five people were killed in traffic collisions. Among those killed were two pedestrians, one motorcyclist, and two vehicle occupants who were not wearing seat belts. The CHP made 221 arrests for driving under the influence during the same 30-hour timeframe.